Noisy heads?

[87ChevyR10]

So, I installed a new exhaust system last weekend. Long tube headers, 2.25" piping and Purple Hornies GP's. I've checked and re-checked header bolts and seems like anytime I put my foot in it, I get this load clacky noise coming from, what I believe, is the driver side of the engine. The engine is quiet at idle and even at light throttle to bring up the RPM's some. But once I hit the gas, the motor makes this clacky noise. I don't know if what I am hearing is normal or if I am hearing a potential problem. I'll try to get a short vid up by tomorrow.

 

[chengny]

Here are some things that you can check without tearing the engine open:

Back off on the timing a bit and see if it mellows out.

Check for a hard to spot manifold/header to head leak by pouring some Marvel Mystery Oil down the throat. It makes a nice white smoke tracer that allows you to easily see any leaks.

Check your rod bearings by pulling spark plug wires one at a time. If the rap disappears with a particular cylinder not firing that usually indicates a shot rod bearing.

Pull the valve covers and feel the push rods/rockers for play.

 

[robert8096]

How come the title of this thread brings up a totally different picture in my mind?

 

[Thunder]

You didn't mention what type of gaskets you installed. If you used paper gaskets you probably didn't get a good seal and burnt it out already. I personally use copper gaskets. I go with the thicker ones and have never had one burn out. After install warm your motor to full operating temp, then let the motor cool down and retorque.

 

[87ChevyR10]

You didn't mention what type of gaskets you installed. If you used paper gaskets you probably didn't get a good seal and burnt it out already. I personally use copper gaskets. I go with the thicker ones and have never had one burn out. After install warm your motor to full operating temp, then let the motor cool down and retorque.

Uncertain what they were made of. They had silvery look to them. I may switch to the copper ones on down the road. I hope all I am hearing is just an exhaust leak.

 

[Thunder]

Once you use the copper gaskets you.ll never use anything else.