The engine starts up fine but there is valvetrain clatter for 3 seconds then it quietens down. The engine oil light also remains on for a couple of seconds. This happens only when the car is started in the morning......during the day its absolutely fine.

The motor has done 70k miles but consumes no oil, is great as far as compression readings are concerned and the oil pressure is fine when warmed up. I am using 15-40 weight oil and a genuine honda filter. What could be the cause?

TIA

 

Anyone?

 

sound sto me like the 15-40 is the the problem that oil is way to thick at start up for a stock honda engine. all honda are supposed to run 5-30 in most all conditions.

 

^^ correct.

15-40 oil weight is too high for japanese motors, regardless of mileage. don't worry if your engine burns a bit of oil after switching to 5-30 or 10-30, its normal for an engine with 70,000 miles with 15-40 oil changes done on it.

 

Will switch to a thinner oil as you guys suggested. Should I try a synthetic 10W-30 like Mobil 1?

 

sure that its not a piston slap?

 

del_orson,

It sounds like clatter from the top of the engine, like misadjusted valves....for three seconds and then it disappears. Usually, piston slap takes longer to quieten down.