Engine - Ticking At Idle, Diagnostics

Group
ENGINE


Number
92-20-003


Date
JUNE, 1992


Model
SONATA V6


Subject
SONATA V6 ENGINE TICKING AT IDLE



Some V6 engines may emit a ticking sound at idle. This sound may occur either intermittently or continuously, but usually when the engine is hot. (Do not confuse this with the piston slap noise when the engine is cold. See TSB Volume 2, Engine Group, Number 20 (2-20-020) "Cold Engine Start-up Noise- 3.0L V6".)

This sound could be caused by three conditions.
1. camshaft pitting
2. rocker arm-to-bearing tower interference
3. intake rocker arm-to-exhaust rocker arm interference

REPAIR PROCEDURES
First determine which bank the noise is coming from, and then determine which of the following three conditions is causing the noise.






1. CAMSHAFT PITTING
Examine the surface of the camshaft lobes for any pitting. If any is found, replace the camshaft and the corresponding rocker arm.


2. ROCKER ARM-TO-BEARING TOWER INTERFERENCE
A small casting burr may have been left on the side face of the rocker arm and may not allow a full face contact between the rocker arm and the bearing tower.


Remove the rocker arm assembly as described in the appropriate Sonata Shop Manual. Remove the rocker arms from the rocker arm shafts, noting the arm and bearing cap positions for later reassembly. Inspect the side of each rocker arm for shiny spots where it comes in contact with the bearing tower.






These shiny spots indicate an interference condition.


Using a hard, 500 grit emery cloth on a smooth surface remove the casting burr from the rocker arm side face.


CAUTION:
Do not use a file to remove the casting burr.


3. INTAKE ROCKER ARM-TO-EXHAUST ROCKER ARM INTERFERENCE
The opposing intake and exhaust rocker arms may contact each other. Inspect the rocker arms on the roller end above the camshaft for a shiny spot caused by contact from the opposing rocker. To correct, replace the camshaft, the interfering rocker arms and the rocker shaft springs next to those rocker arms.






PARTS INFORMATION



WARRANTY INFORMATION

Use applicable labor operation and labor time per the Labor Time Standard Manual.