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MG MGB GT V8 Factory Originals Technical - tapping from cylinder

Morning

I have a 65 B Roadster fitted with a Rover 3.5 V8. I found a noticeable tapping sound coming from one of the cylinders last night. The enging was running smoothly but am concerned that this is a sign of bad things to come.

Advice/thoughts appreciated.

Thanks , Chris.
Chris Holmes

Chris,

If it is a noise similar to a tappet it could be an exhaust manifold leak.

It doesn�t make any difference but what Rover engine is it, Range Rover, SD1, P6?

Geoff
Geoff King

Geoff

excuse my lack of mechanical knowledge (have been an owener for only 3 months so learning fast) - how will I know if it is a noise similar to a tappet?

Engine is a SD1

Chris.
Chris Holmes

Chris,
I had the same problem with mine, tightening the exhaust manifold bolts did the trick, I hope it works for you

Mike
Michael barnfather

Chris,
But not too tight. I think 11-12 lbs/ft is recommended if you can get a torque wrench on them. Since you mentioned that you may inexperienced, I thought I'd mention that it's easy to strip those aluminum threads in the head if you're not careful.

Best, Joe
Joe Ullman

If it only comes on as the engine comes up to temp it is more likely to be a tappet. I suppose a very bad tappet could do it from cold but I would still expect it to get worse as the oil gets hot and thins. A manifold leak happens from a cold start. But IME they are quite different, both in sound and where it comes from. You can often feel manifold leaks by putting a finger by (but not on) the joints or see black soot in the area.
Paul Hunt

This thread was discussed on 05/04/2002

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