My 403 that we recently purchased is ticking. Possibly lifter? Can anyone recommend a good mechanic on this website or a reputable shop in Phx?

 

How many miles on the engine?
Lifters don't tick, the rest of the valvetrain makes the racket.
Usually it's the center exhaust rockers that go first, due to oil gumming up inside of the pushrods (due to extreme crossover heat), lack of lubrication accelerating wear.
Rockers wear, Fulcrums wear, pushrods wear-instant ticking.
The newfound slop creates a gap at the valvestem tip.
As long as that IS exactly what you are hearing.
If it is valvetrain noise, are you sure that this is too much for you to fix?
Kelley's automotive could handle this (ONLY if Troy, or Shaun is still there), but it has been awile since I have been there. (602)395-1260
I am in N Phx/ Glendale area.
Where are you located?
Jim in Phx.

 

I am in North Phoenix, off of Happy Valley and 35th Ave... I had another guy look at it and listen to it with his stethascope.. and he says he thinks its only Header Gaskets that are worn out.. so I ordered a new set of them, should be in this week. But if you want to look at it as well, I am always open to another opinion...

 

If it is a lifter, run a quart of ATF for a 100 miles or so and then drain and put new oil filter and fill some good oil. I like Castrol GTX but what ever you want.
Gene

 

Well.. thanks to Warhead.. my ticking is GONE!!!! We just finished replacing all of the Valve Spring Retainers and Keepers.. due to the retainers being too large, and causing the lifter to slightly bump against it which in turn caused the ticking! What a job, and I could not have done this without Jim's help! He is good! Came over, listened to it, diagnosed where exactly it was coming from, and he was right! Thanks again Warhead!!!

 

Thank you for the nice words Chris,
You have some pretty decent mechanical talent, also.
Really enjoyed working with you on the 65, hope we can get together on some more projects.
BTW, the ride was very "motivational".
Jim