Hello, I'm new here and am a very happy owner of a '96 Ram Cummins. The engine is a 215HP unit, euipped with the 5-speed trnasmission. My question is that recently I have noticed a slight upper-engine tapping sound at idle once the truck is warmed up. It's distinct and sort of metallic sounding like a valve noise. I use Rotella 15W-40 oil that was changed about 2000 miles ago. The vechile has 276k miles. Any ideas about this noise? Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

have you had the valves adjusted lately? If not get them adjusted as well as get the valve covers replaced so they wont leak if they do? good luck

 

since the noise comes on with the engine warm, my bet goes to the overflow valve. It will sound just like a loose valve.

 

Most likely the overflow valve, you won't find one cheaper than here-
Precision Diesel Injection and Turbo Inc.
Marty Tompkins
toll free 888-734-7349
$22 + $5 shipping and handling.
Does over the phone with a credit card.

 

Thanks for the help, I'll see how that works first!