1997 Chevy Lumina Engine valvetrain rattle

1997 CHEVROLET LUMINA
103,653 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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CFRANK
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I have a 1997 chevy lumina with a 3.1L OHV engine, for about the last 20,000 miles or maybe a little more i have been noticing a rattling sound and it sounds like it is coming from the valvetrain. I have taken it to several trusted and reliable mechanics that say this is normal and i do not think it is especially since it is an OHV engine and should run quieter. What could be wrong and how could i fix it. I would like to do it myself as i am pretty mechanically inclined.

Thank you
Aug 10, 2008 at 8:55 PM
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JALOPYPAPA
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I don't know if I'd say valve clatter is normal, but neither would I say it's something that could be fixed easily. With the solid lifters on some old cars, you could adjust valve lash, but hydraulic lifters have pretty much eliminated that chore. If a hydraulic lifter is leaking, that can cause excessive lash, especially on cold starts, when you'll hear some tappet noise. Not much to do about it other than tear down the engine and check and replace the lifters.
Aug 11, 2008 at 9:47 PM