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Montana 3.4L valve tap noise at idle


MarkNYC
09-14-2004, 01:34 AM
Recently noticed a valve tap noise at idle on my 3.4L 2001 Montana. Dealer says that it is a normal noise, but it wasn't there before. What do you think? Should I just ignore it?

Thanks
Mark

umina
09-14-2004, 08:12 AM
Unfortunately, the dealer is correct, this is very common with the 3.1, 3.4, and 3.8 motors, as well as some other GM motors. The noise is not harmful to the vehicle, as most people have had these engines run well over 150K miles with this noise. Its a GM thing, no doubt its poor build specs and engine machining, but they will NOT do anything about it since it will not cause performance or reliability issues. Many people have complained, but since its not a safety issue and does not impact reliability, they just say deal with it.
Just make sure you're changing your oil regulary and using a heavier oil during the summer. Don't go heavier than 10W30, or you will see decreased performance. The thicker oil may help to quite this down, but you will always hear it at cold startup.

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