<VV> engine clack

[kovacsmj]

 I have a metallic clacking in my brand new engine. I think it is a
lifter. All the lifters were new, as well as the valves, cam, springs,
guides, seats, rockers, keepers, pistons, rings etc. 

 

 I am looking for the most foolproof way to determine which lifter it
may be. No amount of valve adjustment seems to quiet the engine. It
seems to be on the left side. I know I can replace them one at a time
and do it that way, but I want to cut down the odds (not to mention the
aggravation). There is only a few hundred miles on the engine and there
was no clacking when it first started up. I'm assuming a stray piece of
dirt has messed with a lifter.

 

 I have used several stethoscopes without being able to locate the
problem. Would it help to disconnect the fan to cut down on the fan
noise and then use the stethoscope? It won't overheat at idle in a
couple of minuets of analysis.

 

Getting all the information is most of the solution.

 

MIKE KOVACS