lifter tick. PLZ help.

[dman19831]

hey guys, i have a 88' 5.0. i just noticed a lifter tick in it last week. and its my every day driver right now. i was wounder couple things here. is it ok to be driving it at all?? and what am i looking at for price on getting it fixed??? also should i just be replacing them or is there more to getting it fixed????

 

[82bird]

Could just be varnish buildup. I'd start by changing the oil and filter with a thicker oil(15w40 or 20w50) and throw in an oil system cleaner. Then park the car and give it a high idle, 1500 - 2000 rpms for 10 or 15 minutes. Then change oil again. I know it sounds like wasting money, but it cheaper than new lifters. Its worth a try. Sometimes just changing the oil with a thicker oil, helps new born ''ticks''. Also check the valve lash, maybe a rocker or two are a little loose.