Maybe another lifter tick post... Maybe not

[northstareclips]

Alright- please don't flame me. I did some searching & alot of things come up as lifter tick; and didnt resemble my issue. I have a 98 GST w bolt ons but an internally stock motor. This is motor #2 for me- and my old one had lifter tick so I've heard it before.

Closest search response (in my mind): "An exhaust leak makes a "tick" noise as well. It can be hard to differentiate at times. I had a tick that was driving me crazy and it turned out to be loose turbo to manifold bolts. The bolts were also rattling slightly and making noise which complicated the diagnosis."

The issue: Constant ticking noise ONLY when 1) motor is halfway to operating temperature. 2) @ idle or acceleration, NOT under deceleration or once I begin to hit boost. 3) The ticking noise has 2 speeds that it will do it, all below 3k rpm.

I just got an oil change last week & levels are good (10-30)

I think it is moving back to Colorado from Phoenix- the altitude change is quite a difference & I am still on the AZ tune. I've also been told that it sounds alot like an exhaust leak. I appreciate the help. I'm sorry if this turned out to be another lifter tick thread, I did my searching & I'm not exactly new to the DSM game.

 

[laserblazer]

get a stethascope or long screwdiver and probe the engine in the areas you think are causing it. if it is mechanical you wil be able to get a better idea of what is ticking. if it is an exhaust leak start looking at all your welds and gaskets to see if anything is obviously leaking.

 

[kimcheefists]

Have you checked any of your exhaust components yet? From what you described, it's definitely an exhaust leak. Check your exhaust manifold or turbine housing for a crack. When the engine is cold, the exhaust gases leak through a small opening which causes an audible "ticking." After the manifold warms up, the surrounding metal expands, sealing up the supposed crack making the tick go away.

Also, check that all of your exhaust manifold studs are in place with their corresponding nuts. A missing nut/stud can obviously create an exhaust leak by not sealing up the maifold to the head. In fact, check that all of your exhaust hardware is not missing.