1972 350-4 clacks on cold start for a few seconds

Hi - my stock 1972 350-4 clacks for a few seconds when I start it cold.

Otherwise the engine seems fine. I'm wondering what it might be, if it's going to kill the engine, and what I can do to fix it.

thanks,
-Dan

 

lifters? o No:

 

If it goes away after a few secs. dont worry about it.
What weight oil you using?

 

Probably lifters. As stated earlier what weight oil and what temperature is it when you start the car?

Scott

 

Try cranking the engine for a few seconds before you hit the gas... This usually gives the engine some oil pressure before it starts...

I agree with the others though, nothing worry about as long as it goes silent after a second or two.

 

Thanks for the replies

I went by the oil weight chart in the manual, which I think put me at 10w30

I am starting it at 50 - 60 degrees.

 

What is the hot idle oil pressure?

 

Maybe a little piston slap. Happens sometimes. Not really a big deal as long as it doesn't continue.

 

This can have more to do with the oil filter you are using than anything else. If the oil filter does not have an "anti drainback valve" the filter can be empty when you start the car and thus oil takes time to fill it before it moves on.. to the engine.
I recommend Wix filters, also Purolator "Pure-one".

 

Add some Marvel Mystery Oil

 

What you are hearing is normal.

 

My 350 doesnt do it.

 

Hell my 350 starts immediately once one cylinder fires....breathe on the key and it starts....hot or cold:Brow:

I do however, have one lifter that clacks until oil pressure hits 25lbs....which is within a second or two.
I consider it normal....

 

my lifters are quiet from startup.

 

At least for a '72 350 it is.
I've had three of them with stock, orginal engines, and they all did that.