Q: Knocking noise valve clatter

asked by on September 22, 2016

My Tempo GL makes a knocking noise like valve clatter when I start it up and right before I shift it when driving from 60 – 70 mph. My number 1 connecting rod broke so I changed all of the rod bearings and the oil pump. But it didn’t help the knocking noise stop. I took the head off and on again, changed all of the lifters and still had the same problem. My push rods and rocker arms looked fine. Do you have any other ideas or suggestions?

Car is making a noise Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello. It’s quite possible, even likely, that the crankshaft bearing journals are worn out of specification. Replacing the rod bearings only does not compensate for a worn crankshaft rod (or main) bearing journal. It’s also possible the oil pump pressure/volume are inadequate for your engine’s wear conditions. I would have a professional mechanic listen to, and check out the noise coming from your engine, and disassemble it further if needed to confirm the source of the knocking. A YourMechanic professional can help diagnose the noise and advise on repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Replaced multiple parts and car still won't start
Wow that is a lot of replaced parts. Assuming all the new parts are good I highly suspect a problem with either your cam or crank sensors. If either of these sensors fail your engine will not know when to...
Vehicle whining after belt replacement
Hi there. I would suspect another pulley that the serpentine belt drives has a dry/loose bearing. Have a certified mechanic, like ones from YourMechanic, inspect the noise (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/loud-squealing-or-squeaking-is-coming-from-timing-belt-inspection) and check each pulley for play.
Automatic trunk not closing automatically
It sounds like you might be having a wiring issue. Most of the wires that go to the trunk are wrapped up in a wiring harness. The harness is routed in from outside then splits up and goes to its...
Temperature gauge rises when stopped
It sounds like there may be a problem with your cooling fan, particularly the fan clutch. The fan clutch has a mechanism, that based on the temperature of the engine, will either let the fan spin faster or slower. When...
Metal noise when turning left.
The noise over bumps could be related to the steering rack or mounts. You have already replaced everything else. As for the screeching noise, there is a chance that the brake dust shield is rubbing the rotor The shields are...
Engine knocks, tailpipe blows white smoke
Hello. There are a few things that can cause this. If the smoke is white then you may have a blown head gasket. This is a common failure on this vehicle, especially if it has ever overheated. If the smoke...
Check engine light on and got the codes P0700 and P0731
Diagnostic trouble code P0700 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0700-obd-ii-trouble-code-transmission-control-system-malfunction-by-spencer-clayton) and code P0731 indicates that there is a fault in your car's "automatic transmission control system". Although there could be a faulty "part," (such as a shift solenoid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/downshift-solenoid-replacement) or speed sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-speed-sensor-replacement)), there are...
Battery or alternator
This may be a sign of a weak battery, a failing voltage regulator or failing alternator. As you may know, the alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine runs by generating amperage and recharging the battery while...
Were my rotors really replaced?
The vibration you are talking about can indeed be caused by bad brake rotors and solved by replacing them. However, there are a few parts of the job that, if done incorrectly, can cause the problem to return very soon....

Related articles

How Long Should an Engine Last?
A car engine can last hundreds of thousands of miles. Get your oil changed often and don't ignore car warning lights to make your engine last longer.
What Are the Benefits of Having an Engine Rebuilt Instead of Replaced?
Rebuilding a damaged engine may be a more economical option than full replacement. In an engine rebuild bearings, gaskets, and seals are replaced.
6 Essential Things to Know About Horsepower
Horsepower Horsepower is one of those terms that everyone recognizes, but just try asking someone what it means. You’ll more than likely receive a blank stare or a quickly mumbled response that doesn’t really help. The following are six things...