Lifter Ticking noise and disassembly questions

[Torchred96]

Hey guys. This is continued from the discussion which has now become technical so I'm relocating it from Here:

http://www.zr1.net/forum/showthread.php?t=18348&highlight=grieving

So, I went ahead and removed left cam cover after removing the plenum, brake booster and loosened the ps pump. Because I had a hard time getting to the last nut of the booster and because my steering column and gauge cluster needed work anyway, I went ahead and removed those which made access much easier.

So, here I sit with the car up on jackstands and the driver's side cam cover removed. Hoping to see a smoking gun by visual inspection, the only thing I see is two camshafts which look to be in great shape with virtually no galling or evidence of problems. Also surprised that the lobes do not look worn for as many miles it has. Maybe a mic measurement would prove otherwise?

I thought I would remove the oil pan next and check to see if anything looks awry there. I did not do a compression test. I'm guessing I am just about to the point to consider pulling the motor, but,

Where would YOU proceed at this point? Thanks

[Torchred96]

Ok, sounds good. Guess I'll go buy another one of those now. Someone borrowed my last one and never returned it.

So, can the compression test be performed with the cam cover off? I'd kinda like to see if I can pinpoint it by looking and listening while turning it over. Those caps holding the camshaft down look like they'd rip right out without the cam covers holding the cams down no?

I only have driver's side exposed but the chain is tight.

[scottfab]

I'd put it all back together and put an engine cleaner in per its' instructions then fill with fresh oil.

[Torchred96]

Ok Dynomite, thanks. I'll start with those suggestions. Scott, that's too easy...how will I ever learn how to work on the engine if I let the chemists do all the work :) Plus, I'd really like to learn how this engine ticks....pun intended.