OK I have a noise in my car it is a 1991 Honda Accord. The car has just turned over to 170,000 miles original motor and tranny. It has a what seems to be a valve train issue. When the motor is cold it ticks like a banshee, the only way I can put it is when a valve is miss adjusted. But once it warms up ,a few minutes, the noise goes away, almost completely gone. I've read some things saying it might be piston slap, but I'm not to sure its that. It just started out of the blue. I have already tried adjusting valve lash to no avail. Could someone please help me figure out my problem?

 

Just for further info it kinda sounds like a sewing machine

 

is the motor vtec? if it is it could be the vtec LMA "lifters" my h22 does the same thing

 

It possibly could be a valve sticking due to carbon or varnish buildup. You may want to try a bottle of Sea Foam, add some to your oil, fuel and intake to help remove any buildup.

 

Piston slap fades away gradually as the engine warms up, which sets it apart from most other clatters. Exhaust manifold leaks (caused by broken studs) do that too but can't be heard on the engine with a mechanic's stethoscope.

 

NO it is a non VTECH the motor is a f22a1

 

If it is piston slap should I be worried or is it nothing to worry about. How many miles ca I expect with it like this. Could synthetic oil help?

 

From what I have read, don't switch to synthetic. Its an older car, gaskets aren't built for synthetic, plus if you have used conventional its life, I would continue. I drive a 97 and only run conventional. I have a f22b1 with 75k original miles, and it has LOUD valves. I got them adjusted when I bought it and went through it, and they said everything is fine, its just the nature of the f sohc to be loud.

Not sure if you just experienced the sound kicking in, could be lifters need adjusting and/or piston slapping, just means there is area between your piston and cylinder wall. Does it stop once its hot?

 

The sound is less noticeable when its hot.