mcleantmw

Not sure what is causing the engine noise I can hear when the vehicle is at very slow speed and I give it some gas. Not sure if it's a lifter noise or possibly carbon build up in the heads. I've added Chevron gas treatment several times and seems to help some. The care runs well with 186,000 miles on it.........and I've been very religious changing the oil and filter every 5k - 6k miles. What's the best way to diagnose the noise source and should I have it done at my MB Dealer or go to a local independent MB Repair Shop?

VII

What engine?
Always or only when cold?
You can remove the valve covers to assess the state of the valve train although noise can be coming from the adjusters as well.

mcleantmw

The engines on the 2003 E500 are 5.0L V-8, DOHC, 3 valves/cyl #113.967. The noise is definitely more noticeable when engine's cold but can also be heard at operating temperature. And definitely most noticeable when going very slow speed starting up a slight incline and giving it some gas, the ticking noise is there. Since I know the noise is coming from the right side of the engine.........good idea about removing the right valve cover to help localize the sound. Again, I'm wondering if it's more carbon build up in the head than other issue.

I recently viewed a U Tube video of a mechanic who went into detail about servicing the lifters.............lots of detailed worked beyond my skill level. I see replacement pre-owned complete engines for sale in eBay and other places that cost anywhere from $500 - $1500 with 50k miles or so on them. If my engine really needs some lifter maintenance or similar serious work, I'm wondering whether the better alternative would be to replace the engine?

VII

Lifters on the M113 are not usually problematic. As you state it's probably nothing to worry much about with replacement engines being so cheap. I would remove the valve cover just to see if anything needs obvious attention.