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Suburban Tapping when cold

99 GMC Suburban just turned 100,000. When it is cold it makes a fairly distinct tapping noise when first started. The sound increases/decreases in concert with engine speed, and stops after about 30 seconds. It only happens the first time the truck is started each day.

I took it to the dealer and they started with "maybe it is time for a new truck." They said they put something in to clean carbon deposits, but suggested I hold off on needed service (some gasket replacements and a brake job) until they could see if the truck is "worth fixing."

The exterior and interior are in great shape. I've had it since it had 9 miles, changed the oil every 3,000 miles and it's lived in a garage all its life. It rides fine, and gets up to highway speed with little effort. I was getting a little pinging last summer and changed to higer octane gas (85 octane I think).

What is up with this? Why would the dealer suggest that it is not worth fixing (or may need a new engine)? They muttered something about a broken "wrist joint.?"

Thanks!

Gary

Reply to
Gary
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i just bought a 98 burban for 10k and if i needed a new engine / transmission it would be lot cheaper than a new or newer burban. i would not be afraid to put 4k into this vehicle, expecially when looking at new prices.

Reply to
hardworking

To me, the first thing to do would be to dump the dealer. Sounds like maybe your hydraulic lifters are at a point where they need adjustment at best, replacement at worst. Possibly intake manifold gasket replacement time too.

Reply to
Stephen Young

This sounds very much like the notorious GM piston slap issue. GM says it is harmless, but opinions vary. As far as your dealer is concerned, I'd get the opinion of a mechanic you can trust. H

Reply to
Hairy

Reply to
jdoe

I had a 97` Z71 with the same problem. Mine started doing it at about 50,000 and I sold it with 90,000 on it.(bought a bigger truck)It`s just piston slap when it`s cold. No big deal. So don`t worrry about it.

Reply to
Bill

Thanks Guys -- I thought it was BS on the part of the dealer, but it is nice to have that confirmed by those who know.

I'd certainly drop a new engine in it rather than buy a new truck, but I'd not expect to have to do that at 100k.

Gary

Reply to
Gary

let her knaw until you hear that bottom end knocking.

Reply to
ironheaddave

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