I have a queastion when I start my 64 on a cold start I get a little tapping sound for around 15 to 20 seconds. Then it goes away after that. Should I be concerned? The engine has around 6000 mi. on it. Ramie
This may not be the answer, but based on my experience I would change the oil filter (correct AC) before thinking of something more complex. It's simple, inexpensive and I've seen "new" filters create a similar condition more than once. A possibility certainly worth eliminating.
I agree with both of the above comments and would like to recommend Castrol High Mileage 5W-30. My Nailheads seem to really like it.
If the sound is a clicking noise, then it may be lifter bleed down. My 264 does it a little, especially if it has sat for a few days. And it has had everything replaced with new, or rebuilt. I even had it balanced, with new pistons. If it is lifter bleed down, the lifters would be suspect, however, I wouldn't be too concerned with it, it won't cause any real damage, if it only lasts 10-20 seconds, and only on a cold start up. Z--
All my nailheads do that after sitting a few days, or on cold mornings. Seems like lifter bleed down to me too. I kinda thought it was a typical issue. Daryn
Here's an interesting tidbit of information........after I installed my new exhaust, bent to "factory specs", I noticed the rt. front pipe is routed not as close to the oil filter as it used to be. Now the faint clicking noise I used to get only on hot days is gone. Presumably because the heat was being transferred from the exhaust pipe to the oil in the filter, causing the oil to get too hot. I just wanted to pass this on.:bglasses:
