Morris Minor Owners Club

Hi. Took the moggy for its MOT. Passed with no problem at all. But , I have this ticking noise like a noisy tappet but I've double checked the clearance and there fine. It's more noticeable on tickover but then all of a sudden it clears and runs very quiet. It's like oils got to somewhere that's been running dry . The mechanic says it's probably a cam follower , any ideas !!!!!
Ronnie

Well done on the MOT...the cam followers are easily inspected - push the rockers to one side (after slackening the adjustment..) and lift out the push rod - shaking it to release the follower. Off with the side covers, and hook the follower out with a finger. Inspect and replace if ok - then move on to the next one. DO NOT slacken the head nuts ! Also inspect the wear on the rocker shaft as you push each rocker to the side.

Will do Roy. But why does the noise disappear but obviously comes back. What exactly will I be looking for when I get the follower out ?

Can't say really - maybe a delay in oil getting round. When it's all back together you can start up and watch how well the oil flows up to the rockers.

So if I take the rocker cover off and run the engine oil should be seeping out everywhere ?? Perhaps may see a dry spot

So if I run the engine with the rocker cover off I should see oil seeing out everywhere ?? Maybe see a dry spot

Yes - maybe ! Watch out because the oil will splash around a bit if it's flowing correctly.

Th top of the follower should be smooth, if it has a groove in it that will show that it has not been rotating

The BASE of the follower..... smooth, no 'cracking' or pitting.... A few light 'whorls' on the surface are of no consequence.