Yeah, I know. But this is different! I bought this 1993 several years ago with a locked up motor. I had a "friend" install a new long block from s&s motors out of Washington state ( reputable rebuilders). I've got another of their motors in my 89 and it is awesome.

I wasn't around for the install. When I picked it up I noticed a very loud tapping noise, but after researching, I figure it is just a "noisy" 22.

Upon my first valve adjustment, the day after I picked it up, I noticed one of the adjusting screws was broken off! WTF. I pulled one from the old head, but the noise persisted.

I've driven it from Alaska to Mexico a few times and across USA numerous times. I only drive this one for about 2 months a year when I am traveling. Odometer doesn't work, but I'd guess I have put about 100,000 on the new long block.

Other than the very annoying noise, the only negatives I've experienced is one plug always fouls when I am wheeling off-road at low rpms. It seems to also have a bit less snort than my 89 which has more miles on it.

I assume it is a bent exhaust valve. Something happened during the install and the installer would not give me any info.

I'm toying with the idea of tightening up the exhaust valve lash clearance to try to get it to quiet down. It really is that loud and it drives me nuts. Even random people ask me if it a diesel or why is it tapping like that?

Any ideas, besides get a louder stereo? Am I an idiot to try and adjust an exhaust valve out of specs?

I

 

It would be difficult to bend an exhaust valve installing an engine. Hard to imagine.
Known 22re noises include:
Excessive valve clearance
Timing chain slap
piston slap(rock)
Belts and idler pulleys
Exhaust leaks, cracked manifold or loose nuts

Do a compression test
Also have a helper hold it at the rpm where it makes the noise and pull spark plug wires one at a time to see if you can make it go away.
if it does, likely bottom end. If it doesn’t, likely valve train.

i have seen cheap aftermarket valve adjusters mushroom on the tips. Oem are best.

 

A burned exhaust valve from lack of clearance is worse than enduring a noise.
If you've run it a hundred thousand already, you should be used to it.
Leave it alone.

 

Thanks guys I appreciate the input.