tappet noise

My guess is the oil pump is loose and/or the block to pump gasket needs replaced. This problem is very common with the older EA82 engines. First time I have heard this problem with the 2.2 but the symptoms are the same.

Endwrench is a Subaru Pub that has a lot of info in an archives section on their home page. Check out that link.

Bill

You've probably already been there, but just in case:

Didja check the oil passages in the rocker/rocker shaft for debris? If that's all clean -n- nice, look to the oil pump.

ByeBye! S.

Steve Jernigan KG0MB Laboratory Manager Microelectronics Research University of Colorado (719) 262-3101

Hi,

The EA-82 engines had hydraulic lifters and tappet noise just "came with the territory." Lots of things seem to help, though no one solution does all, but perhaps your engine will respond to some of the earlier "fixes." In addition to the suggestions you've gotten, the O-ring behind the oil pump has been implicated, supposedly for letting air into the system. While I'm not sure that's what's REALLy happening, many have experienced "relief" by replacing that part (which means digging in all the way, so might as well plan on doing t-belts, all the other engine seals, maybe a water pump while you're in there.)

A less invasive method that's also helped some is to use a cleansing oil additive like Rislone or Marvel Mystery Oil. These have been discussed frequently in the past, and again have produced mixed success.

Good luck!

Rick

Thanks Rick and everyone I'd better get the pressure checked and then start on the gaskets, pump etc. I may clean and then try some thicker oil first to see what happens.