Another issue with my chim

[jubileejim]

All I want to do is drive the thing but it keeps getting niggles

I just hope this is the last thing

Any how basically it has developed a tapping sound near the driver in the engine bay. Gets worse on acceloration and when idling

any ideas?

[Cider Andy]

A search in the forum will show up many threads concerning blowing exhaust manifold gaskets: it could be that. A simple and cheap repair that can be very awkward to do because of lack of space to access the bolts.

[That Daddy]

James, where are you in the south east?

[S7Paul]

First of all, why is the driver in the engine bay? Secondly, two common causes of tapping are worn valvegear (in extreme cases rocker arm pads have been known to drop off) and leaking exhaust manifolds. Can you have a closer listen, as it would help if you could be a bit more specific (exactly where is it coming from?).

[jubileejim]

It doesn't sound like a blowing exhaust. More like an electric sound. It could be the distributer cap? There a is black thing with what looks like a screw cap attached to the engine by the drivers side of the windscreen. I reckon its got something to do with that.

[V8 Animal]

jubileejim said:

It doesn't sound like a blowing exhaust. More like an electric sound. It could be the distributer cap? There a is black thing with what looks like a screw cap attached to the engine by the drivers side of the windscreen. I reckon its got something to do with that.

That would be the power steering reseviour.

Edited by V8 Animal on Tuesday 24th July 21:43

[2 sMoKiN bArReLs]

jubileejim said:

It doesn't sound like a blowing exhaust.

The gasket sound mentioned above is more like a tapping/clicking than a blowing, and is very common (and as said, the cheapest option!) Don't discount it out of hand.

[jubileejim]

That Daddy said:

James, where are you in the south east?

Near Gatwick. Any where near you?

[That Daddy]

jubileejim said:

That Daddy said:

James, where are you in the south east?

Near Gatwick. Any where near you?

sorry no london,you could have run it past if you were closer

[jubileejim]

When I first heard it sounded like the belt was slapping against the bonnet.

How would i know if it was the gasket. It only happens when accelorating and when idling when I lift off it stops.

[2 sMoKiN bArReLs]

The other time I had this was when I had a split alternator belt.

[jubileejim]

if it is the gasket is it much work for a garage to do? I really don't think I should touch my tiv with a spanner.

[2 sMoKiN bArReLs]

jubileejim said:

if it is the gasket is it much work for a garage to do? I really don't think I should touch my tiv with a spanner.

Nope, for a garage it would be a quick repair. For anyone who's not tried it before it's damaged knuckles!

[jubileejim]

only problem is my local garage is a bit pricey Any one know of a good priced tvr specialist in the surrey area?

[jdharris]

Give Brian at Fernies a call (http://www.fernhurst-tvr.co.uk/) - he'll give you some advice. Incidentally mine is doing a similar thing. It sounds like a ticking noise which gets faster when I accelerate. I put it down to blowing exhaust gasgets - I'll probably get Brian to take a look some time soon.

James

Simon - where in London are you? I'm around Balham.

[Hut49]

S7Paul said:

First of all, why is the driver in the engine bay? Secondly, two common causes of tapping are worn valvegear (in extreme cases rocker arm pads have been known to drop off) and leaking exhaust manifolds. Can you have a closer listen, as it would help if you could be a bit more specific (exactly where is it coming from?).

Tapping is generally worn valve gear as suggested. Ticking is more likely to be exhaust manifold gasket leaking. When you've fixed both of those you'll possibly reveal another potential source of rev-related engine noise - the hammering of a round cam lobe.

[jubileejim]

Does it sound like i've bought a bag of trouble? Or are these things wear an tear things? I really don't want to be taking it to the garage every couple of weeks

[AluminAl]

If you want to test for gasket blow get yourself a length of garden hosepipe..about 18",one end to your ear then run the other end aroung the exhaust manifold flanges with the engine running...honestly it does work.
Careful if you have long hair though

[jubileejim]

Just took it to austec. They say its the exchaust manifold gasket. Is is ok to drive it in this state or am i making it worse? They want £450 to fit them. Does this seem right? They only cost £1.50 to buy. So I was thinking to shop around for a cheaper quote but don't want to cause more damage.

Also is there any other consumables worth replacing whilst its apart?

[AluminAl]

..HOW MUCH ??????
How about arming yourself with a selection of 9/16..if memory serves me well..spanners and sockets and spending a day in your garage ?..plus it`s doubtful if they`re all blowing,source the culprit and just go for that one..a complete set of eight gaskets on Ebay work out to around 3-4 quid,or go the whole hog and replace the sets with a stud conversion..about £35.00.