Intermittent Drivers side Valve train clicking... 96 4Runner LTD 3.4L 230k miles.

[96RunnerLimited]

Ok so I've recently been noticing some intermittent ticking/clicking valve train noise on the drivers side that is not your ordinary valve train noise. It's really strange... it comes and goes. Also seems to fade if not disappear if I manually idle it up 500-1000 rpms. I know these 3.4L engines are damn near bullet proof. I've owned many Toyota's with this motor with zero issues. My 4Runner currently has 229,500 original miles on it and runs strong! The internals are super clean... I've always ran top notch Amsoil 100 percent synthetic 5w30 and Amsoils EaO series oil filters. So I'm pretty sure it's not a lifter sticking.
I can't recall if the valves on these 3.4L engines are adjustable or if their hydraulic lifters?

Any help and or suggestions on this issue would greatly appreciated!!!

Thanks a bunch!

 

[thecole1098]

These engines have solid lifters that use shims for adjustments, but rarely ever need to be touched. The clicking you are hearing is likely the purge valve for the charchol canister doing its job. This valve is on the drivers side near the firewall and is a very common "issue" on these, even though there's nothing wrong. These valves are just noisy but it indicates no problem. Search for VSV clicking or clicking near firewall for more info.