So I just got done rebuilding my TBI chevy 305. I have the engine back in and running but it sounds like the valves are ticking. Also I didn't change anything in the heads except the valve seals everything is stock also. First question is, does this sound like a common problem? Or, Does it sound like a different problem? If it is the valves what is the best way to adjust them while they are installed on the car. I have looked this up and you get few different answers and I'm looking for some input on the best way to go about doing this.

 

Might as well get the valve lash adjustment out of the equation, then go from there. If you followed the repair manual two step procedure, then that could be the reason for the noisy valves: Engine Valve Adjustment Procedure - The Right Way

 

Thanks for the link! It was extremely helpful.

 

So got the valves adjusted just like that link showed but it's still ticking. Now here's the twist. So once I was done i was getting ready to put the valve covers back on and realized that there was a number cast in to the heads. I somehow in the excitement of getting the engine put back together flipped the heads. In other words the one has a five on it and it is on the passenger side (and cylinder five is on the driver side) and the driver side has a six on it which is on the passenger side (and cylinder six is on the passenger side). Now this being my first tear down and rebuild the heads look identical to me other than that number cast into them. My question, is this a huge problem and could this be causing the ticking?

 

I should also note that after adjusting the valves there was no difference in the ticking it didn't get any better or worse.

 

Heads are reversible, doesn't matter. Are you sure you're hearing a valvetrain tick, and not an exhaust leak? Sometimes an exhaust leak at the head/exhaust manifold, or at the headpipe donut can fool one into thinking it's an engine noise. Did you replace the lifters too during the rebuild?

 

whats the oil pressure at? don't trust the gauge. and i second checking the exhaust. does it get louder with engine load, or change when revved?

 

I did not replace the lifters. My plan next is to check the exhaust. I took out the factory manifolds and installed some headers. I think that there might be a leak at the driver side Y-pipe flange. The Y-pipe is a little to short and is right up against the oil pan on the driver side so it needs to be extended a little. My plan is to cut the pipe and weld a small piece in to get it down off the oil pan. Thanks for the input I will keep you posted on the progress and possibly post a video and some pictures.