What does it mean when your valves are tapping?
Gravity will keep what oil there is further down in the engine. If oil isn’t reaching the top of your engine, you’ll begin to hear a higher-pitched ticking or tapping noise. More often than not, this is coming from the engine’s valve train components like lifters, rockers, camshafts and cam adjusters.
Are noisy tappets a problem?
You may hear people referring to the annoying ticking noise as ‘engine tappets’. So although the tapping sound coming from the engine’s head may in fact be a problem with the tappets specifically, it could also be a problem with the camshaft, rocker arms, valves or even just a lubrication problem.
Why does my Subaru make a tapping noise?
It sounds like a sewing machine and is louder under load. This morning it was 16 degrees C and the noise was most noticable, but again, once the engine is sufficiently warmed up the noise ceases. I’m told that these 2.5L boxer engines just do this.
Why does my 1998 Forester make a tapping sound?
My 1998 Forester has been doing that for 228,000 miles now. When it stops, I’ll be worried. It’s “piston slap” – and normal. The pistons have become so short in the search for less friction and better economy that they rattle a bit when cold. A number of Hondas do this too. Take it easy on the throttle while it’s cold.
Is there a problem with my Subaru tensioner?
Subaru issued a TSB on it, although I swear the noise was only a problem at temperatures well below what you are experiencing. IIRC, the tensioner noise was nothing more than an annoyance just like the piston slap (nothing critical). and I am really glad all these folks have told me not to worry about the noise.
Where are the valve covers on a Subaru?
The subaru service manual says .20mm intake and .25mm exhaust (cold). There is a 10mm lock nut over an adjustable stud that contacts the stem of the valve. You have to remove the valve covers to do so. Also, remove the section of timing cover on the driver side to show an arrow on the driver side cam gear.