Scottfish,

I have a 1990 300E with the same problem it is fairly common on a higher mileage M103 Motor. Valves guides and seals are in order. But you can go for quite a while with the ticking your experiencing. I recommend going back to the factory spc. 10W 40
The thinner oil gets into tighter spaces to get everything lubed well, in fact this could be your problem have you recently converted to 20W 50? If you go back you may notice the lifter noise disappear!

Happy Motoring

__________________
Brandon



2008 S550
1957 Dodge D100
1967 VW Microbus 21 Window
2001 Suburban
2004 Beach cruiser bicycle
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