valve train is getting louder

1993 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LAREDO
225 MILES
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KAGWO
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On a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, 225K miles, if the valves sound like they are 'ticking', does this indicate that the head gasket needs to be replaced? I have kept the oil changed regularly, but with 225K miles, I suppose it's time to do the head gaskets, especially if they're clicking or ticking louder at this point...........
Dec 19, 2011 at 6:30 PM
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FIXITMR
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that dont have anything to do with head gaskets. your valve hydraulic LIFTERS are noisy. what weight oil are you using?
Dec 19, 2011 at 7:05 PM
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KAGWO
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About two weeks ago I changed it to Wolfs Head Synthetic 15W40.

Should I switch it back to something organic like a Valvoline or Castro 5W30 for winter use ?

Please recommend the best for this time of year (and for summer use) and 225K. Thanks!
Dec 19, 2011 at 7:25 PM
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KAGWO
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P.S. It's a _1996 (1993 was a typo earlier. )
Dec 19, 2011 at 7:27 PM
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FIXITMR
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are you saying the noise just started after oil type change? or since it got colder?
Dec 19, 2011 at 7:31 PM
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KAGWO
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I would say a little bit of both, but I think more so because it got cold right after I changed it. I've used that weight of oil before, and didn't notice it as much, but that was over two years ago. (I have time before Christmas to switch it back to a lighter weight if needed.) Also, the garage it's in now where I reside is smaller, so the clicking is more noticeable.

The oil container also says it's for gas _and diesel engines, so I'm thinking the oil may not be the cause.
Dec 19, 2011 at 7:53 PM
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FIXITMR
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is this a cold start only noise? GOES AWAY after warmup?
Dec 19, 2011 at 8:15 PM
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KAGWO
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both, catch up with you later 2 nite, gotta run.........
Dec 19, 2011 at 8:42 PM
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KAGWO
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Just was out running errands, got back, popped the hood and as I listened very closely in the garage with it running, yes the lifters are probably going or may be bad, but after listening closer, another clicking sound is coming from a small device to the right of the air filter, and has a few small hoses and wires coming from it, and I have no idea what it is. Not even sure what it is and will trace to where the hoses go soon. The top part of the device has a small round head and it gets more narrow towards the bottom. And the clicking sound it's making is a constant and even sounding clicking.
Dec 20, 2011 at 12:28 AM