Tapping Noise

[KNZ2552]

Hello
Engine sounds fine ticking over or when revved BUT I have a tapping noise ( like loud hydraulic lifters ) when moving in gear ( more noticeable at slow speeds in low revs ). One mechanic advised clutch bearing or gear box problem, another advised coming from top of engine, cam shaft housing area or dump valve area.
I have driven the car 200+ miles like this and not getting any worse/better. Has any one any thoughts on what it could be ( I appreciate you can not hear it and my description is vague ) and what tests I can make to find out what is the problem.
Thanks
Ken

[Enright]

Does it change with direction of travel - that is, is it the same going in a straight line or turning a corner?
Might indicate worn CV joints or driveshafts.
If it only happens when driving, could you try turning the engine off on a downhill section to see if it stops?
And try putting it in neutral, both with and without engine on.
That should narrow it down between engine and gearbox (possibly even clutch too).
As a last resort (because it's dangerous) is there a way that you could get the vehicle up on stands or something so that you could run it in gear with the wheels off the ground?
That would enable you to get closer and see where the noise is coming from yourself, because strapping an assistant to the bonnet is generally frowned upon by the Old Bill!

[KNZ2552]

Thanks Neil for a quick response!
I think it is the same whether in a straight line or going round a corner but will check turning engine off going downhill and also in neutral with and without engine on over the weekend and report back!
Regards
Ken

[Rambo]

...strapping an assistant to the bonnet is generally frowned upon by the Old Bill!

It never stopped PANTZ

[CalElan]

if it's the clutch bearing you can usually hear it by just pressing the clutch pedal.. Have someone else do it while you have your head under the hood..

[KNZ2552]

Hello
CalElan Thanks for info on clutch. No noise when I press clutch pedal!
Neil, noise the same when changing direction but noise disappears when driving in neutral. If this points to the gearbox are there any other tests to try?

Thanks
Ken

[surfboardfiller]

Hello Ken,
Did you find the cause of the noise?
Mine is making a noise that sounds like tappets but the rhythm doesn't match the cam time.