What’s that tick?

[Jazz1]

I can't feel any exhaust leak and cannot find tic with stethoscope. Any ideas.? It’s 4.3 GM

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

Was that supposed to be a video? It’s only showing up as a picture.

 

[Jazz1]

Yes. cant seem to upload the video or copy to this site. Maybe later,,,warmed up engine and snapped off 2 exhaust manifold bolts,,plan was replace manifold gaskets as FELPRO for this engine was only $3.00 at RockAuto….life *****

 

[APEowner]

I can't see the picture or the video but if you have someone hold a shop rag over the tail pipe (or pipes) it makes it easier to find exhaust leaks.

 

[Bert_]

Had an 89 4.3 that had a lifter tick at hot idle. Been that way for over a 100,000 miles. Never did get any worse.

 

[kaymccampbell]

Much like a slant six, they say a ticking 4.3 is a running 4.3. i don't think I've ever seen one that didn't make little noises.

 

[Jazz1]

thanks for responses…so I’m going to leave the 2 broken exhaust manifold bolts as I’m considering repainting my 10 year old paint job…the broken bolts had no effect on ticking

 

[GoToGuy_Ron]

We used a adjustable nozzle spray bottle with soapy solution to narrow it down. Also sprayed some white krylon paint around just around flanges to get exhaust trail.

 

[wssix99]

An infrared thermometer will show you a leak real easy.

Are you sure the leak is causing a tick? Could you have air being sucked in causing a "pop" inside the exhaust if you are running a little rich?

 

[Copymutt]

3/8” rubber hose to your ear. If it’s an exhaust leak you’ll hear it.

 

[pancho400cid]

If all else fails.... look for a cracked flexplate.

 

[Jazz1]

Turned out there was a leaking exhaust manifold gasket,,,impossible to detect, a broken bolt covered in soot exposed the leak. Many hours to install a few dollars worth of parts but the tick is gone!

 

[58Yeoman]

didn't work.

 

[Jazz1]

I removed front clip to access the 3 broken bolts.