Tappets

[KyleMorrisEvans92]

Hello, I'm sure this is a silly question, but how do you know when the tappets need adjusting. I can hear a ticking noise when I first start up and there after at idle. It is also noticeable at around 50 MPH and over.

any advice will be very much appreciated

Kyle

[Dean]

You can check them anytime, do you know how it's done?

Only takes 30 mins if that.

One of the BMC manuals gives a comprehensive guide. Although it says 12 thou, use 15 thou on the exhaust valves.

[bmcecosse]

You should check and reset them every 3000 miles. If you don't know how - we can guide you - but best to read the workshop manual. You obviously need a set of feeler gauges....before you start.

[KyleMorrisEvans92]

Right ok, I have both manual and feeler gauges. would the tapping noise come from the tappets? Obvious question I know ! ha ha

[bmcecosse]

Unlikely - because thge 'tappets' are deep in the block, riding on the camshaft. What you will adjust are the 'valve gaps' - and yes if these are massive (unlikely - because they tend to close up - not open out) you may hear them. I run mine at 18 thou on the exhaust and not noisy. But worth checking them - it is only a 30 min job as mentioned earlier.

[KyleMorrisEvans92]

Thank you all for your replies. I Will have a look tomorrow

Kyle