Risk of ignoring lifter noise? - ZR-1 Net Registry Forums

VetteMed · 01-30-2012

As my ZR-1 nears 195k miles, I've noticed that the noise which I and a few other forum members think might be lifter noise, seems to be worsening slowly. The motor runs great, but at idle, there's a noticeable tapping noise coming from what sounds like under the plenum. If this IS one or more lifters that is collapsed or otherwise defective, is this a big risk for the affected cam(s) involved? I am having a hard time justifying pulling the motor out, given that it seems silly to swap lifters, and then put such a high mileage motor back in the car.

I have absolutely no budget for any thoughts of a rebuild, or a used LT5 from a part-out. If I wipe a cam lobe, or if the engine otherwise pukes, the car will be sitting for a LONG time.

I'm not really sure what I'm looking to hear -- I know I'm probably gambling by continuing to drive the car a few hundred miles per week.

Is it worthwhile to try a different (read: thicker) oil? I've been running Mobil1 10W-30 High Mileage.

Recently changed plugs, have good even clean burn in all cylinders, FWIW. 20mpg in mixed driving.

Thanks for any input!

01-30-2012	#1
VetteMed Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Orlando, FL Posts: 1,828	Risk of ignoring lifter noise? As my ZR-1 nears 195k miles, I've noticed that the noise which I and a few other forum members think might be lifter noise, seems to be worsening slowly. The motor runs great, but at idle, there's a noticeable tapping noise coming from what sounds like under the plenum. If this IS one or more lifters that is collapsed or otherwise defective, is this a big risk for the affected cam(s) involved? I am having a hard time justifying pulling the motor out, given that it seems silly to swap lifters, and then put such a high mileage motor back in the car. I have absolutely no budget for any thoughts of a rebuild, or a used LT5 from a part-out. If I wipe a cam lobe, or if the engine otherwise pukes, the car will be sitting for a LONG time. I'm not really sure what I'm looking to hear -- I know I'm probably gambling by continuing to drive the car a few hundred miles per week. Is it worthwhile to try a different (read: thicker) oil? I've been running Mobil1 10W-30 High Mileage. Recently changed plugs, have good even clean burn in all cylinders, FWIW. 20mpg in mixed driving. Thanks for any input! __________________ 2004 Z06/Z16 LeMans Commemorative Edition 1991 ZR-1 #302 White/Gray (sold) 1991 ZR-1 #1147 Red/Saddle (sold)