Re: Valve problems on the way home today.

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2010/6/4 15:46:22

Loose valve guide in the block is almost a certain impossibility unless it fractured from some other issue, and even then it's VERY unlikely. And they can be changed with the engine in the car, though not an enjoyable job. I'd think the problem is not related to a guide.

Did the car develop an engine miss at the same time? Does it have a pronounced miss now at idle or otherwise? Perhaps a broken valve spring which would then allow the keepers to fall out and the spring and retainer to drop, and there'd be plenty in there to make noise, including the valve slamming up and hitting the head! Should be easy enough to ascertain with the valve covers removed which I'd think would be your first step.

You can completely service the valve train with the engine in the car. Even if you need to remove the camshaft which I'd think unlikely, once the radiator is removed it will just barely pass thru an opening in the grille, though you might have to jiggle the engine a bit on the mounts for clearance.

Keep us posted; if it's a valve problem I've done many valve jobs on these engines and should be able to help.