M40 engine sounds 'tappy'

[greentouring]

She runs well, has covered only 91,000 miles and is serviced, but I don't like the sound of the engine.... it sounds kind of tappety........obvious thing would be the tappets. Am I correct, and if so, is this expensive, and a job I could myself with limited mechanical knowledge?
Most importantly, what should my engine sound like after? Maybe this is something all M40s have around this mileage..............

[secondtimelucky]

Maybe this is something all M40s have around this mileage..............

Unfortunately you are on the money there mate. Most M40s will be tappy even after that mileage, just how badly depends on history

[greentouring]

And is there anything I can do about it?

[robbo86]

A number of things though eventually you will need to replace the tappets as they are hydraulic and non adjustable and with that relace the cam, cam belt and oil spray bar. I was quoted a cost in a garage of about £300 for that so who knows what it will cost you in France.

To try and make it a little better you can run diesel oil through it for one oil service. Becuase diesel engines are dirtier it contains more detergents and will clean out some of the crap in your engine and maybe make it a little quiter. I would say try Wynns Valve lifter but I do not know if it available over there.

[greentouring]

Thanks, Robbo.

[peterjcollins]

Hi,
Our friend from PARDON Club is right. I have an M40 which did the same,i replaced all the hydraulic tappets, cam shaft, cam followers, oil spray bar, timing belt and that has cured it.
Dont waste your time changing the components without changing the cam shaft as these are usually scored on the lobs. Regular oil changes on the M40 are very important and will avoid this trouble for along time.
Parts from an independent supplier approx £300 Febi brand is ok. If you are mechanically minded it is not to bad a job because you can carry out the work without removing the cylinder head.

Good Luck
Peter

[greentouring]

Thanks, Peter.

Out of interest, what happens if it's left? I listened again today and it didn't seem too bad. I'm wondering if what I'm hearing is just the characteristic sound of an M40 and not the tappets at all....................I'm wishing that is... lol!

[Brianmoooore]

Nothing happens if you leave it, other than you get a few comments from passers by.
Try the diesel specific oil for a few months. Auchan's own brand is what I use.