Merc 3.0 pretty loud tapping sound, Bad Valve?

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New Member
Sep 22, 2009
88
North FL
Boat Info
180
Engines
3.0 Merc W/ Alpha I Outdrive
So I took my 180 BR out a few weeks ago and noticed a Tapping sound from the motor when i'd rev it up it would go away. Next trip out it's now constant at any RPM. Sounds like Valve Train... 3-4 seasons ago I had the head all reworked with all new SS Valves and new seats, New Manifold and Riser. Haven't noticed any issues since but now I've got this tap. Is it time again to redo everything or can I head it off at the pass and save a little money if I do something now?
 
If it's coming from the top of the engine, the head and valve train end, it sounds like a valve, rocker or lifter problem. Is your oil level correct? Hydraulic lifters need the proper grade and level of oil to open and close valves. Low oil level or the wrong grade, too heavy or too thin could be the cause. It could also be as simple as a routine rocker arm/valve lash adjustment.
 
I would seriously check the bushings for the flappers in your Y-pipe.

?????? Y Pipe? It's an inline 4 cyl one manifold one riser? >Confused<

If it's coming from the top of the engine, the head and valve train end, it sounds like a valve, rocker or lifter problem. Is your oil level correct? Hydraulic lifters need the proper grade and level of oil to open and close valves. Low oil level or the wrong grade, too heavy or too thin could be the cause. It could also be as simple as a routine rocker arm/valve lash adjustment.

Just changed the oil it's in the center of the hash marks, used the Same Quiksilver 25w40 I always have... Now adjusting the valves that hasn't crossed my mind.. Are they simple adjust with just feeler gauges or bucket n shims? Speaking of oil though at Idle i'm running about 20-25 psi 40 psi at cruising speed... from a bad memory it seems as if it was higher last year...
 
Oil weight sounds right. By middle of the hash marks do you mean it's on the full line, or in the area between full and add? Just want to make sure since I can"t see your particular dipstick. If it's not on full and you just changed the oil add some oil slowly until it reads full. Pour a little in wait a few minutes and recheck the stick. Probably take less than a quart. Also there are different types of lifters (solid and hydraulic) If solid you need shims and such. If hydraulic procedures vary. Lots of good stuff on youtube about adjusting lifters and rocker arms. Hope it's just an adjustment if the oil fill don't work. 40 psi while running is about right.
 
Oil weight sounds right. By middle of the hash marks do you mean it's on the full line, or in the area between full and add? Just want to make sure since I can"t see your particular dipstick. If it's not on full and you just changed the oil add some oil slowly until it reads full. Pour a little in wait a few minutes and recheck the stick. Probably take less than a quart. Also there are different types of lifters (solid and hydraulic) If solid you need shims and such. If hydraulic procedures vary. Lots of good stuff on youtube about adjusting lifters and rocker arms. Hope it's just an adjustment if the oil fill don't work. 40 psi while running is about right.

Yeah it's a hair low... Changed the oil got it close in the driveway... forgot oil when I took it out... Will top it off next time it's in the water... yeah I watched a video on youtube after you posted that... they are hydraulic and don't seem to be a huge job to adjust... you just can't turn the crank manually the video says and I don't have a starter box or i'd prolly do it myself. Could use the key and give it a whirl..
 
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hyd ones, 3/4 from 0 lash. remote starter, turn engine untill a intake is closed and adjust.intake closed means you on the compression stroke,
 

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