Anyone have thoughts on this sound I'm hearing above mid RPMS? I checked valve clearances and everything seems to be in spec, next thought was compression maybe to see if a valve isn't seating right or something but I'm kinda just spitballing.

 

I can't really hear anything in the video. Have you checked your timing chain?

 

I haven't, I'll check thanks. It sounds a lot more like it's in the rear of the engine though. Almost inaudible from the front of the engine bay.

 

The only thing I can think of towards the rear would be valve lash. Try isolating the sound by placing a long handled screwdriver on different parts of the motor and hold the handle tight to your ear. Like a stethoscope.

 

If you have a headset type hearing protector, what we used to call Mickey Mouse ears, they seem to amplify the long screwdriver method. I found that once the screwdriver is pressed against the engine, and the MM ears, you can hear what's coming through much more easily than just trying to stick the handle of the screwdriver in your ear. So to speak

Just wanted to throw that out there. Hearing protectors for shooting, found at any gun shop make excellent devices for thiss method. The hearing protectors also block out external noises, which also makes it easier to hear what's coming through the screwdriver.

Good luck!
Pat☺

 

The screwdriver method is a good idea to isolate the sound. I need to try 2ToyGuy's hearing protector idea, that sounds like it would work very well. I have a mechanic's stethoscope that I bought at Harbor Freight for real cheap, and I would recommend it. Now I need to come up with a plan to attach them to the hearing protectors.

It is difficult to say from the video, but I am thinking something with the valves. If you can isolate the noise to the top of the engine, re-check the valve clearances and make sure the valve cover bolts are not too tight. Check the timing chain while you are in there. You can also try adding some Riselone engine cleaner to the oil. I have had success with it clearing up sticky valves on a few different vehicles.

You could also try temporarily adjusting the valves near the rear of the engine tighter than spec and see if the noise changes. That could help isolate the problem, but do not keep them too tight for long.