what should good engine/valves sound like? (1 Viewer)

[e9999]

the sound of my 4.5L is a bit different than previous trucks or cars I owned. Quite a bit louder. I wouldn't exactly say like a diesel, but kinda halfway between my Accord and a Diesel. Perhaps normal for a big inline.
It's loud enough that I am wondering about valve noise. Are there some typical sounds or noises that one should associate with valves out of adjustment?
I know, it's hard to describe in writing, but any attempt at "description" would help. I will use a stethoscope and see if one cylinder area is particularly noisier than others. But in general, are there audible warning signs for problems whether valves specifically or engine in general ?
thanks
Eric

 

[Sammy Jenkins]

Re:what should good valves sound like?

Yeah, I think I'm in the same situation. Kind of sounds like a diesel. When people ask me what kind of engine you got under there, I'll sometimes say it is a diesel. I guess this is a pretty normal thing... hopefully. My friend has another FZJ it sounds the same way, he has 100k miles. My truck has 135k miles if u were wondering. I would say that it is pretty normal for a big inline from my observation, than again I could be wrong.

 

[Boom7750]

I *think* that what alot of people might mistake for valve-rattling is actually noise coming from the injectors. Mine makes a kind of "popping" sound, similar to noisy valves, but more crisp and precise...like its ticking. But remember, at least on the 1fz engine, a quiet valve is a tight valve. And that's not a good thing.
John

 

[e9999]

the injectors I think are typically much more a sharp short duration click. I checked some that were exposed on a Dodge and you could hear them very well individually.

The noise in my 97 is more bass than treble. More like banging than clicking IIRC ...

E

 

[Pitbull]

[quote author=Boom7750 link=board=2;threadid=13891;start=msg128837#msg128837 date=1080586948]
But remember, at least on the 1fz engine, a quiet valve is a tight valve. And that's not a good thing.
John
[/quote]

John nailed this answer. You want them to make noise. I checked mine at 100K miles and they were all right in the middle of the spec. Remember when you check them it has to be on a cold engine.

 

[e9999]

PB, how many for a valve measurement check?
Eric

 

[cruiserman]

1

Pull the valve cover and be able to rotate the crank.