Turnover Noise

[RPM1]

Hi Guys,
Relatively new to the forum and Pagoda ownership. There aren't many of us out here in HK.. so hoping you can help.

My 230SL runs very well and is otherwise in very good condition. When it ticks over there is a gentle/light tapping noise from the front/mid engine area. It goes away when I accelerate.

I can't pinpoint it and having moved from a modern car to this 1964 model I might just be over sensitive... it runs perfectly well, but I recall reading somewhere this type of thing is an early indicator of head gasket problems etc, so I'm trying to solve beforehand.

Any views?
Thanks
Robert

[Ulfi]

I've just posted a slightly similar question (naturally, I should have read yours first, but didn't), so I'll keep an eye on your question and you can do the same with mine. Good luck!

Ulf

[ja17]

Hello Robert,

Most likely just needs a valve adjustment.  Other possibilities are more involved. Start with the inexpensive easy items first!

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[RPM1]

Thanks Joe. I'll investigate and see where that gets me.

Ulf, good luck with yours..!

[Longtooth]

Hi Robert from HK.... Do you mean that it (the sound) goes away when you're driving constantly at a higher rpm, or just while accelerating (higher engine load) to a higher rpm.  Do you hear it at idle? I take it the sound goes away when you increase rpm even at no load? (sitting in neutral in your garage for example, then depressing the gas pedal or throttle linkage in the engine compartment)... but you're symptom's aren't sufficiently detailed to better diagnose possible sources.  Could easily be just a valve adjustment... valves too tight... but after a valve adjustment if the sound's still there you'll need to provide a bit more info I think to better provide possible causes/remedy paths.  

Longtooth
67 250SL US #113-043-10-002163
The 6% Club - Best of the Best
'02 SL500 Sport

[RPM1]

Thanks very much Longtooth. The sysptoms are as you suggest. The noise is only on tickover, once revs build it goes. I'll take care of the valve adjustment and ask the mechanic his view. Once diagnosed I'll update this post if it's anything more serious.
Appreciate the help.
Rob