The engine in my 63 Cutlass was rebuilt by a reputable engine builder approx.

600 miles ago. From the day I first drove it,I've been hearing a slight tapping

noise coming from the drivers side of the engine,but only when in drive. The

noise will not occur when the car is idling or at first startup in the morning.

It can't be heard from the passenger side and will not occur when the car

is up on jackstands and in drive.Engine says he cannot hear what I'm hear-

ing,but says he is willing to help if I can give him something to listen to.

The compression ratio on my engine is 10:75 to 1.Best gas I can put in

is 93 octane with 108 additive added. The exhaust system has been

replaced and noise is still there. I fear I'm on my way to a rod bearing

failure or worse.Is it possible that I don't have a high enough octane gas

in the tank? Is it possible that a lifter is not pumping up,but only under

load? Does anyone else have a Olds 215 high compression V8 that has had

similar problems with detenation? Timing is set at 7 degrees BTDC and the

noise remains at the same pitch at any setting.

Am I hearing the hammer of doom for my engine? Does anyone have

any experience with this kind of engine problem?

 

I'd start with the rockers on the drivers side, check your accessories belts, and pulleys. Is it a possible exhaust leak?

Yes, your compression is hi, but I think you took care of that with the booster. How does it idle? Detonation generally does not happen at idle and no load. How does it run up a hill.

 

The noise doesn't occur when idling,it does occur when driving up hill and

also on lever ground.It's barely audible under the exhaust noise,but can still

be heard at all speeds in drive.

What would I look for when examining the rocker arms? Oil pressure is

around 80 lbs. at startup and drops to around 50 when hot. I'm using

20w 50 oil with a zinc additve.