1973 350 slc tappet noise

[gerhuet]

More questions about my '73 350 slc.

My engine has about 115,000 recorded miles on it. When I start up the engine is as quiet as a mouse, just a gentle rustle from the valve gear.

However after about 5 mins when it reaches operating temp. it starts to develop a fair bit of tappet clatter (not hydraulic tappets). When it gets really warm I can hear a faint 'tock, tock, tock' sound.

Asides from that it runs very well, excellent oil pressure and temp. readings. Any ideas ?

Thanks

Gerry

Wexford Ireland

[230/8]

I believe the valve lash should be 0.4 mm intake and 0.7 mm exhaust. Adjust to that and noise should go away. Check the tag on the radiator support for specs.

230/8

[ctaylor738]

Being mechanical, some noise is normal, but you want to watch out for a pronounced rythmic ticking, or clattering noise, which means one or more are loose. Loose is the first step toward a flat lobe. Do check the oil tubes and replace the little plastic bits on them.

[gerhuet]

Thanks guys for the advice. Rockers off to have a look I guess. I'm hoping that there is some ajustment available as opposed to getting new shims.

Regards

Gerry