Ok, so i have a 97 Civic LX 4speed Auto with about 154000 miles. Its my DD. SOHC D16Y7. Whenever its cold outside, especially in the morning, there is a loud tapping noise coming from the engine bay. Once it reaches normal operating temp, the noise dissipates. I always just figured it was valve lash. I adjusted my valves, and the noise was still there. Yes, i adjusted them while the car was cold.New valve cover gasket, spark plug seals, and gromets. So what is the issue? A helpful lad told me in another thread said my valves were burned (My apologies for commandeering that thread.) Thanks!

 

ttt

 

Bump

 

my friend has the same issue and did exactly what you did but still has a small tick/ knock noise. it could even be a bent valve. the only way to check it to pull the rockers and cam and remove the valves. its a lot of work but you will be able to actually figure out whats wrong

 

Could it just be an unlubricated rocker am or valve that gets lubricated as the engine warms up?

 

bump for anymore quesses for this guy.

 

Burned or bent valves would make a noticeable impact on compression. Try borrowing a compression tester from a parts store.

 

No

 

I'd guess still valve lash. It's hard to get right, might want to try again.

 

Correct me if I'm wrong but injectors can also make a ticking noise as well, right? Something else to consider. Thats what I was told about my Isuzu Rodeo anyway. You can take the tip of a screwdriver and place the small end on the injector and listen to the handle and find which one is ticking the loudest and it would either need cleaned or replaced. the screwdriver acts like a stethoscope, unless you actually have one.