Some of you know that I am a bit of a guinea pig when it comes to performance parts, since there isn't a whole lot for 5VZ-FE's except for the supercharger. Well, after a recent camshaft install and valve adjustment I have a valve tick. It's pretty loud but very inconsistent. Here's the facts:
- It ticks erratically at cold startups
- Until the engine is completely warmed up (5-10 minutes) it will tick around 2,000 RPM or at idle
- Confirmed that the noise is coming from the top end, under the valve covers
- Have not re-checked valve clearances since camshaft install 2 months ago
- Sound changes with RPM
- Sound goes away under moderate to heavy load
Sometimes it's very subtle ticking, and other times it's a very loud tapping. There's absolutely no change in how the engine drives, so that effectively rules out bad timing in my mind. I did a compression test last week but they were all good except for cylinder 6, but I already knew I had a loss of compression in that cylinder since I bought it that way. The other 5 were perfect.
Should I try an oil additive? I already run a high quality synthetic oil, 5W-30. Is checking the valve clearances the next step? Looking for advice on those who have tackled something like this before.
EDIT: Video here on the noise. Sounds like it's coming from the passenger's side head to my ear, as well as in this video.
https://youtu.be/SEqAbLjrETQ
