301 Help please

[webby]

It seems like I have a ticking in the upper section of the engine. Possible lifter situation. I must say though while at temperature and out driving the car the lifter noise for teh most part ceases to exist. Whe it idles down it seems to get worse. Oil pressure is as follows. Idle & 195 degrees, the oil pressure is 25-30 pounds and at 3,000 RPM and basically the same temp the pressure is around the 40-45 range. I know the pressures are Ok..but the lifter tick is killing me. Is there a possibility that one lifter could make this noise...or is a 96K mile car ready for a set? How about a possible timing chain ? Thanks for your help in advance. I'm new here and I appreciate the attention to my problem. John

[Larry]

You are not alone here. It seems Pontiacs are prone to lifter noice, and it will always seem like only one or two are always "speaking up". You may actually be needing new lifters, but before going to all that cost and trouble, why not try some Mr. Gasket Poly-Loc Nuts. You can then adjust the noise away (hopefully), lock the nut down and be good again.

Since you do not indicate that there is any rough running associated with the noise, we must asume that the lifter is in relatively good health and perhaps just a little weak with age (who ain't?!). These adjustable rocker nuts should do the trick. They should be available at most NAPA stores, certainly speed shops, but I don't know about the "box stores".

Let us know if you have any other questions as you procede.