Originally Posted By: fbergski
Originally Posted By: OVERKILL
Originally Posted By: DoubleWasp
Fix the exhaust leak first. They can sound like a tapping. Since they are synchronous to valve operation, you get the gist.
I usually pull the entire exhaust manifold, spray all surfaces with copper RTV, and reassemble. That always silences exhausts for me.
This.
Also, since it is a 2V (though it should have the updated heads with more threads) a loose plug will also tick.
OP: These engines really don't have "lifters" being OHC. They have roller followers with HLA's that just take up the slack on the back side of the rocker assembly to keep tension on the lobe/roller/valve interface. Yes, they will allow a tick to occur if they stick however that's relatively uncommon and usually a noise on these engines is from the exhaust, which are notorious for leaking at the head/manifold interface, or a loose plug, which is more common on the earlier 3-thread engines.
Yes I know they don't have "lifters" I'm an old school guy I call them lifters even though it is a OHC engine with hydraulic lash adjusters.
See my post again about diagnosing the issue, with a stethoscope the ticking is extremely prevalent on the valve covers bolts and head. Not so much on the exhaust manifold.
I pressurized the exhaust system and only found the manifold to pipe leak using a spray bottle of soapy water.
Then it could be a loose plug. Have they been changed? I'm not saying it isn't an HLA, but it is nice to rule out the easier to get at items first, particularly ones the Modulars are somewhat notorious for. Good luck anyways, they are great engines and I'm sure it will serve you well.