Valve Adjustment
 

Do you have to run the valves on a '85 LE9 motor? I think I have a tick/tap coming from the passenger side but it sounds like it could be coming from either the top or the bottom, I was wondering if I have to adjust the valves. Thanks for any info.

The valves don't need adjustment like solid lifters do. They don't go out of adjustment, because they are hydraulic. If you have one ticking, it's more than likely sticking, or a lifter going bad. Of course, it's very possible the cam lobe is also going.

Let's hope it's just sticking. They make some stuff called top engine cleaner. I've never used, only heard about it. It's supposed to help this I believe. I've also heard you can add some Marvel Mystery oil to help with things like this, if indeed it is sticking. Worth a shot I guess.

If the Marvel Mystery oil doesnt do the trick, you might find out what side the noise is on, pull that valve cover and check for a "pulled" rocker arm stud.