help?
 

ok on my 87 truck. I know this is the wrong forum but i know you guys have a lot of info also. My engine is making a ticking noise. I can tell the it seems to becoming from the rear of the engine. I have had many thoughts. Bent rod, header collecter gasket, U joint. But dont know where to start. Any info would help.

TIA,
Cameron

#1 cause of a ticking noise is an exhaust leak. The doughnut seal between the manifolds and the Y pipe would be my first guess on a truck like yours.

The next thing would be a lifter noise.

Both sounds will increase in frequency with engine revs. They are easy to tell apart if you know what you are listening for. If you don't know, try to find someone with some experience to listen to it for you before you start spending money.

Go to the parts store and get about 3 feet of 1/4 fuel line. Start the truck, place one end of the hose in or near your ear while moving the other end in the vicinity of the ticking noise. It works as a stethoscope for locating irritating ticks and rattles, and very good for locating exhaust leaks. You can tape a piece of welding rod or coat hanger to the far end to help reach distant areas and to keep your hands away from hot exhaust. I had a nagging rattle in the back of a blazer and could not find it. I used the hose trick and had my wife drive around while I listened until I found the problem. The rear seat bracket was loose, the last thing I would have thought. If you are going to climb under, be safe and make sure to set the brake, and chock the wheels.

Larry