W108 3.5 temp related drone

[Tomguy]

"Mattress ticking" must be more of an Aussie term than US. Had to Google it. I thought you meant stuffing like fluff at first. If it was actually like a rag I'd have to agree with mercmad! It sounds like a previous mechanic made a booboo during a timing chain job or valve adjustment. I'd take both valve covers off and drop the lower pan to make sure there is nothing that could clog your oil passageways or pump at this point.