Have a 92 XJ. No engine noise until today. Was driving normal and suddenly heard a tapping that would be there while driving but at a stop and idling there was no tap. I feel no change of power from the engine and it runs just like it did before. Just has loud quiet to loud tapping from back of the head depending on RPMs. I pulled the valve cover and everything looks in order... I'm stuck please help!

 

you better open that valve cover and take a look before it gets worse.

 

I already have and nothing looks ****ed up. Everything is tight.

 

Found out the flywheel is able to be pushed back and forth about 1/4 of an inch with the crank pulley moving in unison.

 

Looks like you're in for some new main bearings to correct the thrust issue. The crank may be severely worn too. Needs to come apart.

 

Yeah, thats no good.

 

Doesn't bother mento much. It'll be to easy. Ain't the first time I done main and/or rod bearings on a vehicle. Just an inconvenience lol.