86 420SEL Light ticking noise from engine

[jodeven]

Hi,

Looking for some thoughts on potential cause and direction to pursue. My 86 420SEL, 90K miles has just developed a light ticking sound. Sounds like the noise is comming from under the valve covers. The ticking noise is variable in nature i.e comes and goes and soft and louder, however at it loudest I would say it is still fairly quite. My first thought was hydraulic valve lifters are collapsing thereby increasing lash and noise. The variable nature of the sound is why I thought this. However, after reading many posts on timing chains and camshafts, I wonder, if the noise is an early indication of fun times ahead.

I have been a professional auto technician for 15 years (Chrysler Products), however, no experience with Mercedes vehicles. So, I would say I probably could do any type repair.

Any ideas would be welcome

Thanks

Joe