Hmmmm. OK I've got a bad feeling about this but would like any opinions ...
Following on from my previous posts the new heads barrels and pistons were fitted to a replacement engine, and finally got the last of it all together this afternoon with all of the ancilleries fitted.
Turned over the engine with oil down the barrels, then new plugs, all electrics connected and it started on the third try. Excellent. But.
A very loud tapping noise coming from the engine
Its difficult to locate where the noise is coming from but seems to be the nearside of the engine, or towards the rear near the flywheel. Rechecked the valve clearances of course, all fine, heads torqued as per spec.
I've tried the trick with the long screwdriver held up to the ear on various parts of the engine, but can't locate where its coming from. I can hear the tappets tapping away happily in the heads.
The engine is "full of beans" feels great with tonnes of compression and fires up really easily, but for this dratted noise it'd be happy days.
The noise is in time with the engine revs, a loud metallic clack, doesn't seem to be louder when revving up or down. I've a horrible suspicion what it might be - top or bottom end of a con-rod buggered. Which would mean another engine needed and a lot of extra work time required.
Any ideas or thoughts welcome for other causes or things to check.
Many Thanks,
Chris
Anyone else got any more ideas?
)