Valve Tick after header installation

[shothem1]

I've read several posts on here concerning the engine "tick" with very mixed conclusions. I installed new performance headers this weekend and after installation now I have the infamous VW engine "tick". If I remember correctly and it's been a few years since I owned one but this was pretty common in the earlier 911's. It was common and expected. I now have a 2001 Boxster 986 2.7L. The tick is always there and increases with frequency with RPM but no volume or pitch change. The car runs like a champ and I'm enjoying the additional HP. Is the tick common and expected from the Boxster?

Thanks!

[number9ine]

I've read several posts on here concerning the engine "tick" with very mixed conclusions. I installed new performance headers this weekend and after installation now I have the infamous VW engine "tick". If I remember correctly and it's been a few years since I owned one but this was pretty common in the earlier 911's. It was common and expected. I now have a 2001 Boxster 986 2.7L. The tick is always there and increases with frequency with RPM but no volume or pitch change. The car runs like a champ and I'm enjoying the additional HP. Is the tick common and expected from the Boxster?

Thanks!

Hi,

Like all good troubleshooters, I'd start with what's changed. Perhaps the exhaust header bolts weren't torqued to spec? Have you checked your oil level lately? Did you perform any other maintenance (plug change, etc) while you were in the engine compartment?

On my old Boxster, I noticed the motor sounding a lot louder (and a more pronounced ticking from the valvetrain) after I had the dealer replace my air/oil separator; it turned out they hadn't properly secured the motor cover. Maybe the same has happened to you?

I'd start with obvious stuff like oil level, checking for leaks, tightening/refastening any parts you touched while installing the headers, etc. Let us know what you find out.

Mark