Engine advice

[Z28]

Can some one give me some advice please.Ive been thinking of delving in to TVR ownership for a while and im really taken by the Tuscan.Over the weekend i went to view one.A really nice looking car with all its history to back it up.One problem occured to which i need some advice on.The car was running and was warmed up when suddenly a knocking sound started near the top of the engine.It sounded like tappet or rocker arm.It lasted for about 10-12 seconds then dissapeared again and never came back.It was a distinctive knock rather than a tap.The owner never commented on it but you could clearly here it.The thing is im really taken by the car and would have put a deposit if it wasnt for the fact that the (knock) appeared.Does this some times crop up and normal?or would i be looking at potential big bills around the corner.If so i will walk away and look again.B.T.W it had a rebuild at the factory in 05.

Regards Chris

[dvs_dave]

Was the oil pressure good? Maybe it was low on oil and briefly starved the top end of oil. Sounds like the Speed 6 death rattle but the fact that it came and went whilst the engine was hot is very strange. Check to see if there is a build up of soot around the exhaust outlets.

This can be a sign that its using oil (worn valve guides) and consequently the level may be low.

[Z28]

As said before.It was really warmed up and was running well,and then the knock just appeared.It was a distinctive knock.And as soon as it appeared it went.Ive got to say that when it appeared my heart sank,as up until that point i was on the verge of leaving a deposit.I didnt notice the oil pressure.The owner did say that it didnt use any oil.

[andyoleary]

Might it have been the timing chain knocking the cover temporarily??

Andy

[Z28]

It wasnt that kind of sound.It was definatly top end like a rocker or tappet.

[BigGriff]

Get the buyer to stump up for an engine check if you are interested. If he has something to hide he will be reluctant at which point walk away!