jroseman

after sitting 3-4 days, i get valve-lifter clatter on start-up. it only last for a second or two. basically, i have all new parts...am running shell rotella t. when i initally adjusted the valves, i went one half turn - put it together and got clatter on cold start ups. i took off the covers and went one quarter turn more for a total of 3/4 turn. should i go another quarter turn to make one complete turn. i have read that if you go one complete turn, your valves may not close all the way.

69mach1377

More turns is more 'preload' for adjustable type rockers. What do you have?

jroseman

comp magnum roller rockers 1.6:1 ratio rail type - and comp push rods.

Colorado_Mustang

If it's only on startup, don't adjust them anymore.

It's more likely a problem with the anti-drainback in the oil filter. Even Fram has a valve that keeps the oil in the engine instead of allowing it to fully drain.

After you get everything broken in, switch to a synthetic (like Amsoil) to keep that engine around a long time.

Soaring

Yeah, I agree about the oil filter. I used Fram when I first got my car, and got that one second clatter at start up, but then switched to Motorcraft and Wix filters and haven't had that problem since.

jroseman

yea, its only for a second - and on start-up. i always use the fl -1 oil filter.

Soaring

If you have an engine with a lot of miles on it, try a quart of Mystery Oil in it when you get a quart low.

jroseman

just rebuilt the engine - less than 1000 miles on it

Soaring

OK, then it's about time to change to synthetic oil. It's amazing how much better your engine will run with the change. That will also probably get rid of that clatter at start up.

jroseman

i thought the rotella was the way to go. guess i'll try the synthetic. which brand?