Date:         Tue, 3 Jul 2001 20:14:51 -0500
Reply-To:     Larry Alofs <lalofs@ENTERACT.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Larry Alofs <lalofs@ENTERACT.COM>
Subject:      Re: what is engine clicking noise?
Comments: To: Andrew Fox <afox@USGS.GOV>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Andrew Fox wrote:

> On several occasions after not using my van for several days I will start
> it up and hear this clicking noise coming from the engine.  I know its not
> the CV's because I've already had that problem.  On at least one of these
> occasions the rear of the van was on jackstands.  The clicking usually
> lasts for an hour or less and then goes away.  Anyone know what this sound
> is?  Is something out of adjustment?  Should I go slow until the van stops
> its clicking?
>
> Also:
> Check out and bookmark my problem specific index of vanagon how to article
> links.  When you need info on fixing or upgrading something on your van
> check vanagon.com then check my site.  Send me more links and suggestions
> to individual articles if you find any.
>
> The site is at:
> http://www2.hawaii.edu/~andrewf/vanagon/links.htm
>
> Thanks,
> Andrew Fox
> 86' GL

This sound is probably from sticking or collapsed hydraulic valve lifters.
Both my 84 and my 91 would tend to do this after a week of short trips (8
blocks) without ever getting really warmed up.  Usually 15 minutes at 50 mph
would clear it up.  Various list members have said that the problem can be
prevented by using the proper oil filters (available from list vendors at a
reasonable price) having a valve which prevents the oil from draining out of
the crucial areas while the engine is off.
  One or two people have also recommended using synthetic oil.
  I recently switched to Mobil 1 and also started using the recommended
filter.  In the past month I have not heard any clicking.
   Changing two variables at once is not the right way to experiment.  I don't
know which change was most important in producing the improvement.

Larry A.
91 GL  "Vinnie"