[steve waters]

Started the engine this morning after the rain to pump out the bilges and the engine has a tapping noise but still seems to run good at all speeds. The damper plate springs have been rattling more than usual this year but i havent had any problems with the valves, lifters, etc. Any ideas would be appreciated. i don't know if it would hurt to run it with this tapping.Engine is a 460 ford with vee drive and 900 hours on engine

 

[Harry]

It could be a leak in the exhaust manifold gasket. Get a length of tube and use it as a sound tube to locate the leak if it's external.

 

[3bees]

Could be lifter is not pumping up. I have had luck with putting some Marvels Mystery Oil in and running it. It cleans up lifter that may be sticking. If not you may need to pop off valve covers and adjust valves.

 

[Dae]

Try some Seafoam in it. I've had tapping in my car motors in the past and using Seafoam to clean up the motor internals fixed it.

- Dae

 

[captaingeorge]

Also, check all spark plug wire connections to make sure there's no arcing. Safety Issue.