I have fitted an EA71 that was rebuilt a few years ago to my '78 DL and it has a noise in one head that is becoming embarrassing.  I've set the valve clearances 5 times now, and am confident I have them right at .010" on intake and 0.13" on exhaust or there about.  When I first start the engine it is silent.  After it has run for 30 seconds or so it develops a noise like a lifter that has way too much clearance, you know that real clacky type noise...  Once it reaches operating temp it is so loud it's embarrassing!  It is louder under load and decel, and is worse when hot.  It is quietest when cruising at 100kph in top gear with light throttle.

 

WHAT AM I MISSING HERE?!  I can't work out why it is still noisy!  Any help would be appreciated!

 

Sounds like it is coming from cylinder 3 too by the way...

Long shot but could it be a valve rod that is bent or wearing wrong?  Maybe not seating properly?

Edited July 1, 201312 yr by O.C.D.

How's the oil pressure?

May be a broken piston skirt or bad wrist pin. When the noise starts, pull the plug wire for that cylinder. If the noise goes away, bad news...........

Either excessive wrist pin play or worn connecting rod bearing.