On my 84 380SE with a 3.8L V8 it has a rythmatic tic, tic to it. It increases with engine rpm and is about 1 tic per revolution. It kind of sounds like a noisy lifter tic....but with an overhead cam there are no lifters so..?? It also seems to be coming from the passenger side front of the engine and is very noisy!! Any idea what could be the source of my troubles?? Should I not drive it until I figure it out??


Thanx

 

It could be an arcing spark. Check your plug wires to make sure they aren't cracked or worn and are installed securely.

It could be an exhaust leak between the exhaust manifold and head. You can see a burn streak where it's leaking, assuming it's leaking where you can see it. Open your hood with the engine running. Use an auto stethoscope (or large screwdriver to your ear) to more precisely locate where the ticking is coming from.

 

sounds like exhaust leak to me also.