I have a 95 L6. It has a ticking sound coming from the engine. you can especially hear it when you push on the gas more. its a rhythmic pattern. I'm thinking it could be the timing but not sure. anyone else have this problem. Thanks

 

I feel that timing could be your problem, but could also be something as simple as an exhaust leak.My '96 model had a ticking sound at idle but I could not hear it as the rpm's went up. I checked my timing and it was quite a bit above the largest timing mark of 14 degrees(it is supposed to be 10 degrees). I changed my distributor due to a "pickup" problem and set my timing at 10 degrees and the ticking sound went away(remember to remove the spout connector or plug before timing check). Your rhythmic pattern could be something else, exhaust leak or rocker arm out of adjustment.Keep us posted of your results.

 

I just connected the timming light and the mark was way above the marks on the timing cover. also im not sure on how to adjust it. Does anyone know where the plug is i need to disconnect. also my timing light has a dial on it. where should that be. any help would be appreciated thanks

 

the plug is in the wiring just off the distributor, just a little smaller than your thumb nail.

 

anyone have a picture of this connector. would be helpful thanks. and the best way to loosen the distrubitor

 

If your truck has the ignition module in the distributor then your single wire spout connection should be located next to the module. If your ignition module is on the drivers side inner fender (as my '96 model is) the spout connection has a removable plug with two wires located on the wiring before the module plug. In order to adjust the timing you will have to loosen the distributor bolt (located at the base of the distributor) and slowly turn your distributor(clockwise or counter clockwise). When you adjust the timing to the correct setting tighten your distributor and recheck your timing. I am not sure what the dial is on your timing light.

 

The best way to loosen the distributor would be a distributor wrench. I could not find mine so I used a 1/2 inch wrench instead. Also I stand on a step that fits on the tire and wheel to help me get down in the engine compartment easier.

 

THIS IS WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE

 

Thanks for all your responses and help. i found the spout connector. and timed the truck to 10 degrees. The ticking went away. but if you still listen really close you can still hear a faint ticking sound. is that normal. I know i must have an exhaust leak somewhere. This is because everytime i have the ac on or vent on and am sitting at ideal i can smell exhaust. Would anyone know the best way to check for an exhaust leak and where its coming from. thanks

 

I've used a short piece of garden hose to my ear, moving the hose along the manifold area. Not the greatest, but it does help to remove surrounding noise.