K-series ticking

[JonT]

I've just dug the 7 out of hibernation and had a nice blat for a couple of hours this morning. When I got back I did an oil change, and I've noticed since that there's a distinct ticking noise from the engine. Thing is, it's so bloody long since I've driven it, I can't remember if it's normal. Seems to be matched to engine speed, and possibly louder near the sump rather than top end.

I had the tappets changed a couple of years ago, I guess it's possible one is sticking although it had a good run this morning and usually those quieten down with a bit of a rev, while this doesn't seem to change.

Engine has done ~62k miles (1.6 K-series)

Probably loudest around 15-20s in:

Any ideas? Is it TADTS, or do I need to get it looked at?

Thanks,

Jon

[GulfSeven]

In the Elise this was always caused either by tappets being starved of oil or the charcoal canister valve sticking. Is there one of those fitted on a Caterham?

[oilyhands]

A leak from the exhasut gasket cn cause a tick that sounds a lot like a follower, it's worth checking the exhaust nuts for tightness.

Oily

[rj]

It can also be one of the valve spring caps being about to give up. Beware!

 

[revilla]

On the same theme as Oily's suggestion a loose spark plug can also tick.

[JonT]

Thanks for the suggestions. Found frontmost and rearmost exhaust nuts would take a tiny nip, and no1 spark plug slightly loose. Tick appears to have gone  although yesterday it was still warm - so I really need to go for another blat just to be sure...