Hello, my jeeps 4.0 started to make a ticking other than the normal lol sound like a lifter but stethoscoped it and the hole valve train is making ticking noises. I replaced the exhaust manifold thinking it was that but no luck, I just recently replaced flex plate. I know what that sounds like replaced about 3 of then on other xjs. Checked the dissy and crank pulley and it move about an inch before the rotor moves. So my question is Would a stretched timing chain cause valve train noise? I've been looking at all kinds of post but no luck finding a answer Help would be appreciated Thanks

 

Probably not noise in the upper valve train, but I guess if the chain was sloppy enough it could slap the timing cover.

 

I'm going to check with stethoscope again see if can find it thanks for the help

 

I had a ticking that eventually turned into a chirp. Would of bet money on the a/c compressor clutch or the waterpump as that is where it sounded like it was coming from, but ended up being the distributor. Start with removing the belt and starting the engine for a moment. It will eliminate all the belt driven accessories if the ticking is still there. If you have a junk yard near, swap out the distributor and see if that works. If it doesn't then you may have an internal situation. Usually the timing chain won't make a ticking noise in my experience.

 

Found out where its coming from the its one of the center rocker arms. Can I drive it like normal with the ticking? Can I just replace lifters without replacing the cam?

 

Mine has ticked on and off for the last 50K. Now at 222K. My previous XJ went over 80K Now at 180K also with a sometimes noisy valve train. More of an annoyance than a death warrant. So I would guess its ok to drive. How many miles on it? Maintained well?

Ron

 

When the rocker arm shoots out of the oil filler hole, you'll know it's time.

 

Drive until it dies.

 

Remove the valve cover and run it. Observe oil flow or lack of it.

 

"Remove the valve cover and run for it. Observe oil flow or lack of it."

Corrected it for you.

 

What's the oil pressure?

New lifters on an old cam is generally OK, new cam with old lifters is generally a no-no.

 

Yeah. Don't just keep running it. Could be as simple as a clogged pushrod.