ChrisB

The engine makes lots of metallic ticking noises, especially after it warms up. Didn't realize how bad it was until I heard a nice 911 drive by me - sounded great! Does this sound like valves that need adjusting? Runs fine after the usual cold start problems. Not much torque down low but pulls strongly once I get past 3k rpm. (been that way for as long as I've owned it - 5 years.)

Thanks.

d230

Well, my understanding is a 911 engine making valve-related ticking noises is in much better shape than one that is not. The quieter 911 engine's valves might be too tight, which is not good at all for these engines. Better to have loose (ticking) valves than tight (silent) valves.

Also, a valve adjustment/job might be needed when the engine excessively smokes, or is using too much oil. Ticking valves aren't indcative of a needing any valve work.

ChrisB

Interesting, thanks. Mine puts out blue smoke on startup and doesn't use oil at all (only about 10k since complete rebuild).

d230

Chris: 911s puffing out smoke on start up is fairly common. It's the oil consumption that should concern you; that and smoke when decelerating. Those are the tell-tale signs of needing a valve adjustment.