I have an 87 22re 4runner. replaced the motor about a year and a half ago , new head has 30k on it, It has a loud tick coming from what I thought was the exhaust manifold, I resealed the gaskets and checked the valves , but it is still ticking when I hit the gas. It seems to get louder the longer I drive it. Im not sure what else it could be, any suggestions?

 

Have you checked the timing Chain guides

 

Yeah tends to be the norm', the more you hear it the louder it gets

Put the stethoscope to it and see if you can locate it more specificly.
Did you replace the head at the same time as the motor? Did you replace the timing chain and tensioner?

Yeah do that. Also inspect the chain while you have the valve cover off, for signs of stretching and wear on the outside edges.

Of course chain noise is quite abit different from valve noise.

I've read some references/suggestions that running a slightly tighter valve clearance, one thousandth shorter @ 7&11 thou, makes a huge difference in the sound.