How do I tell the difference between valve tap and injector click?

[toddlamp]

I recently took a weekend trip consisting of ~650 miles. Throughout most (could be all but I wasn't paying attention) of the trip there was a ticking/clicking noise coming from the left side of the engine. I have heard clicking on the side before and assumed it was the injectors. However, the valves are there as well. For a little while the noise became more pronounce (probably why I made note of it) and I started thinking it wasn't just the injectors anymore.

How can I tell the difference? I am about 500 miles over due for an oil change. could it be that the oil has thinned out enough to cause a tap? Or is it just the injectors getting louder?

[deilenberger]

It could be either. I'd suggest investing in a mechanic's stethoscope.. saw one on sale at Harbor Freight for $1.99 yesterday. One of the more useful tools in my toolbox.. The stethoscope will let you narrow it down to exactly where the noise is coming from.

[toddlamp]

Good idea, i'll look for one.

[Kayseventyfive]

Stethoscopes are good, but when space allows, I just use a long screwdriver. Tip on whatever and nicely rounded handle pressed against ear.

[98lee]

When was the last time you checked your valve adjustment?

If you suspect valves that probably means you haven't checked them in a long time.:nono

It's probably not the source of your noise but, they do need to be checked. They can cause all kinds of other problems if ignored.

CHECKING them is quick, easy, and requires no special tools (other than a feeler gauge).

ADJUSTING them takes more time and tools (about $30 worth).


:dance:dance:dance

[deilenberger]

Stethoscopes are good, but when space allows, I just use a long screwdriver. Tip on whatever and nicely rounded handle pressed against ear.The screwdriver may work - but having used both - I strongly suggest the stethescope is about 10x better for really localizing and hearing the noises, if for no other reason than it fits in both ears, so outside noise isn't a distraction.

[toddlamp]

When was the last time you checked your valve adjustment?

If you suspect valves that probably means you haven't checked them in a long time.:nono

It's probably not the source of your noise but, they do need to be checked. They can cause all kinds of other problems if ignored.

CHECKING them is quick, easy, and requires no special tools (other than a feeler gauge).

ADJUSTING them takes more time and tools (about $30 worth).


:dance:dance:dance

They were check and adjusted by Bob's BMW approximately 1,000 miles ago. That's kind of why I am concerned that it's a valve tap but hoping it's just the injector(s). There has been no noticeable loss of power and my fuel mileage has been normal.

[lostboy]

Did the tapping start after the valve adjustment?

[toddlamp]

Did the tapping start after the valve adjustment?

There has always been a clicking noise but recently it has become more pronounced. There was no noticeable change in noise from just before the valve adjustment to right after. However, it could have been there and has only now become so loud as to gain my attention.

if it is the injectors, does a noisy injector indicate a failing injector? As I mentioned before there is no noticeable loss of power and my fuel mileage has been great.

A side note for what it's worth; I noticed the noise while traveling at a higher than normal altitude of ~3000ft - 4500ft.