Valve train noise for the first time

[jorton]

2005 Ford Focus 203,000 miles

For the first time since 2006 my Focus has valve train noise for about 1 minute after I start her up in the morning. I guess the spaces in the cam buckets has opened up a little.

She is running synthetic QS 5w-20. If you thought you could close the space in the cam buckets with a different oil, which oil would you try?

 

[SatinSilver]

Formula Shell 5w30 from Home Depot. Around $12 right now per jug.

 

[Snagglefoot]

Yes, try a 5w30. You've done your duty to save the planet. Let us know if it helped. I keep hearing from Pennzoil Platinum fans on its ability to quiet an engine. But honestly don't expect much with 203,000 miles on the clock. I think you've already won the game.

 

[JLTD]

Have you been running the QS all along, or did you just change to it?

 

[walterjay]

Castrol Magnetec 5W-30

 

[tig1]

I use 0-20 in my 2007 Fusion (same engine design as your Focus). Now your problem is more likely the valves in the intake manifold. These engines perform very well and have a long life on 20 wt oils. Don't believe the 30 wt foolishness. Here's a link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRXRMHl34Ho

 

[Bud_One]

Try some QSUD 5W-30 , $17.97 at Wally World .
It's worth a shot.

 

[4WD]

Yeah ... if you do try a 5w30 - no point in an expensive one just for a test run ...
another option would be a thicker 5w20 like a High Mileage formula ...
the more expensive route is Redline 5w20

 

[jorton]

I removed the swirl plates and shaft about 5 years ago. That made a huge difference. They were pretty noisy when the car was idling.

 

[jorton]

I've been using QS or Pennzoil or Supertech 5w or 0w-20 for about 8 years.

 

[PeterPolyol]

Valvetrain noise? Sudden onset? For 1 minute?
Hmm... they're solid bucket lifters so that's a little odd.
Could it be anything else making noise?

 

[jorton]

I considered that. You typed symptoms exact.

Is it carbon deposits on piston top, or valves?