Engine noise?

Question

1997 Dodge Caravan, clicking noise from the engine when it is cold or just started. 3L engine could it be sticky valves? What should I do to quiet this irritating sound. Is it a sign of wear?

Answer 1

The noise you describe is typical of higher miliage 3.0 engines,first and formost,check the oil level.

Getting to the cause can be costly,,usually worn/sticky valve lifters are at the heart of the problem but it could also be a build-up of gunk in the oil ports/galleys or a combonation of the two.(valves are non-adjustable)

Try not to use additives/cleaners you add to the oil as they tend to loosen chunks that can block the oil pump pick-up screen,instead take it to a reputable tech that can give you a proper diagnosis.

Answer 2

Hi. You never indicated how many miles are on the vehicle but I'll bet it is high mileage. Your noise is occuring due to the upper part of the engine not getting sufficent oil at startup. As it warms, the oil is finally getting to the upper valves. Here's some likely causes, in order of probability.

1. Dirty valves/lifters
2. Low oil level
3. Engine sludge buildup reducing oil flow
4. Sludge buildup partially plugging oil pump intake
5. Weak or failing oil pump

I'd try these things....
First, make sure there are no leaks, and check your oil. If it's really dark & dirty, add a can or 2 of oil detergent for sticky valves/lifters (CD2, or some similar brand). Its additives will help dissolve any sludge buildup that might cause sticky lifters or valves. Add according to instructions. Run on it for a while, 500 miles or so, then change the oil. You should see dark oil coming out of the oil pan. Refill the oil with a good synthetic oil ( I use Mobil 1 but there are many good synthetics out there), and a good quality oil filter. Synthetic oils flow freely at higher and lower temps than conventional oils...so you should have good oil flow right at startup. This should reduce your noise significantly, and might eliminate it altogether.

If the noise is still exactly the same after this, you should take the vehicle to a reliable mechanic to see if mechanical repair is indicated. It could be anything from a bad or sticking valve to a bad oil pump which could cause a major engine failure when it finally goes...experience talking.

Hope this helped.

Answer 3

No it is not engine wear It could be a sign of low oil So be shore to check that If it still proceeds be shor eto go to the Autozone Or what ever you have in that town And buy some Lucas Oil Condenser That will definatly fix the problem. Hope you get the Van Fixed James

Answer 4

I'm assuming your refering to a loud clattering. You've also noted that it's when the engine is cold. I would agree with you in that it sounds like the valve clearances need to be adjusted. You also want to be sure your not hearing 'pinging' (see link) If the clattering frequency increases with the rpms it's probably the valves. I nice old timer trick is to put a screw driver tip to the valve cover and listen to the handle and see exactly where the noise is coming from.

If your sure this is the problem then you can go out purchas ea feeler gauge, and haynes manual. adjusting the clearance from there shoudl be a sinch.

Answer 5

It is lifter noise. Try changing your oil and using Mobile One Synthetic. You can also put in an additive to try to stop it. Nine times out of 10 this will help. If it does not help, yes, a mechanic will probably have to pull the cylinder heads and had them checked. However, try my advised first....small price to pay before just jumping into engine work!

Answer 6

Definitely oil issues. Make sure you change your oil regularly, not a place to "skimp". Get your oil changed and check under the car in your driveway for leaks (put cardboard under just in case). I know the sound, I hope you can get rid of it. Good luck.

Answer 7

it is the sound of no oil on the top of the motor. the 3.0L tend to take a while to pump oil to the lifters when the motor is cold. its a common problem with those motors.

Answer 8

thinner oil