My 1987 560 SL has a distinct valve/lifter tap after warming up. When first started, though, its as quiet as can be. Not a rod knock or anything that dramatic. Just annoying. Any thoughts?

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M. Sandler

1986 560SEC: 150,000 miles, runs great, but I've got to sell it (too many cars for one man)
1987 560SL: 122,000 miles, used to run poorly, now (thanks to forum), runs great!
1997 GMC Jimmy: Turned out to be a turkey.
1989 T-Bird Super Coupe: 150,000 miles, still runs great. Ford got it right.

This thread might be of some help:
Ticking

Thanks for the information and the link. Now that I think about it, I do remember reading it once before. Given the mileage on the car (102,000), I should probably check the oil tube, rockers, timing chain, etc.

I have to say that this site has been a terrific resource. I don't know where else I could have found out as much as I did about my cars. Thanks.

__________________
M. Sandler

1986 560SEC: 150,000 miles, runs great, but I've got to sell it (too many cars for one man)
1987 560SL: 122,000 miles, used to run poorly, now (thanks to forum), runs great!
1997 GMC Jimmy: Turned out to be a turkey.
1989 T-Bird Super Coupe: 150,000 miles, still runs great. Ford got it right.

Your welcome Max and I agree, a great forum! I've learned a lot about my ticking issue and am leaning to the worn cam theory, mainly bec. idle is somewhat uneven at times, but quite mild. This could have been avoided if the previous owner took action when it was ticking only at start-up. All the more reason to take a look at it now.

In your case, I think it's rocker arm or shim related.

There's a recent thread from another 560SL owner you might find interesting: Camshaft wear on 560SL