this thing is clicking/ticking like crazy. the cylinder looking thing with the two bolts. what is it and am I in trouble?
thanks!

 

Looks like a voltage regulator

 

It's your Cam Position Sensor.

Unless you have a CEL, you're fine.

 

thanks guys. no CEL but i have a rough idle going on, could this contribute to it?

 

No, if it was bad you'd have a CEL on.

Start with a thorough Throttlebody Cleaning.

 

Yeah ive done that. Seafoam and water. Works for a little bit then back to its bad idle self

 

Get that OCOD off for starters and replace it with a quality one. Wix is a good brand.

 

Yeah im gonna change it. Due for an oil change now

 

I had knocking distributor, took it apart and greased it. If your sensor is knocking, you can probably grease it too. Mark position of sensor/block by white paint before removal and position of gear/sensor as soon as you remove it.
Check service manual.

 

Iirc you can't " just remove And reinstall the DIS " you need a phasing tool .