I rebuilt both cylinder heads due to a burnt valve in the driver side head and now the passenger side head has a tapping or ticking noise coming from it. Sounds like excess valve lash but I confirmed that the clearances are in spec when I received the heads back from my machine shop (reputable shop). I’ve since driven 1000 miles and still have this constant ticking that is directly related to RPM. No codes, no issues. I took it to a local mechanic and he also doesn’t believe it’s an exhaust leak or injectors and basically told me just drive it and don’t worry about it… I have a good amount of experience building motors but Im still a DIY mechanic so i will admit the possibility that I did something wrong, however, I did follow the Lexus manual throughout the build. I’ve found similar forums but no solution. The only thing I can think of is the oil control valve? Im not sure if it’s a gradual open and close or if it sporadically opens and closes similar to the frequency of an intake or exhaust valve and just makes noise with every actuation? Any help would be appreciated

 

What are the valve clearances did you write them down? Never worked on the 3UZ down to removing heads do the cams have to be off the head to access the head bolts? I seem to remember the intake cam especially is in the way.

 

I don’t remember the exact clearances but something like .006”-.010” for intakes an .010-.016 for the exhaust and all were in spec. I don’t think the head bolts are exposed with the cams in, but I’m not sure what you’re getting at? I did remove the cams in the process and did replace the cam seals if that info helps..

 

Did you lock the intake vvti cam gears when removing the camshafts?

 

I actually forgot to but i used a vice and a wrench to twist the cam about 30 degrees to line up for a service bolt. Unless I’m supposed to rotate it a full turn and then line up but that seems impossible.