ticking noise when driving???

[jccs]

After purchasing my first TVR Tuscan I have been enjoying some fine topless driving. However the car has suddenly developed a tapping/clicking noise only when driving. The noise completely goes away when parked up (idle or high revs). When driving the noise always goes away when the clutch is pressed in (changing gear) and then starts again when released. My local garage whilst not TVR experts but have always been very helpful with my other cars have suggested that the noise is a "loose spring" in the gearbox and to see if it gets any worse before doing any exploratory work (due to cost). Any ideas wouold be very much appreciated as I would prefer to spend a little now than a whole lot later when something goes BANG. Any help would be very much appreciated

[SP6 Animal]

When were the tappets last checked?

[jccs]

I would have to check the service history to be sure but I think about 4k ago. I thought if it was the tappets though surely dipping the clutch wouldnt stop it would it???

[SP6 Animal]

You also take the power off when dipping the clutch.

[jccs]

True but when the car is in neutral I can rev upto 5-6000rpm with no such noise. Would this still indicate the tappets? Apologies for my ignorance I love driving cars but my knowledge of mechanics starts and ends with paying my local garage.

[SP6 Animal]

No so you can discount the engine.
Youre garage maybe right i can't help you further sorry.

[jccs]

Thanks for your responses I really just wanted somebody to allay my fears of the engine going BANG as you do hear horror stories on the straight six engines and this once is at 35k and whilst running very well has had no major work done on it.

[justyr]

Could it be a difference due to engine under load/not under load? Cam chain tension? (don't overtighten)
J

[itiejim]

Load and clutch position will make no difference at all to noise made by poorly adjusted valve clearances. I would suggest that you try to identify whether the noise is related to engine or road speed.

I don't know about the Tuscan, but Cerberas can make a ticking noise from the rear brakes - only when the wheels are turning though!

[PetrolHeadPete]

Clutch release bearing ?

[jccs]

Thanks for the comments im back at the garage tomorrow and will pass evertything on. I dont think its the rear wheels as when driving as soon as the clutch is dipped the noise stops irrelevent of speed. After a bit of googling the clutch release bearing does certainly sound a strong possibilty. I will of course keep this post updated when I know more

[jccs]

Car in garage now as due to oil leak (oil pressure switch) The ticking noise seems to have been caused by the exhaust front section not being tightened up fully. This was vibrating when accelerating or with the engine moving with the clutch in the engine doesn't vibrate as much hence it stopping. I think is a weclcome to the world of TVRs fun to drive and even more fun (or should I say cost) fixing all these little niggles!!!