Hi there, I have an issue with my scooby and need some advice.
It's a 1994 GC8 WRX JDM, had a recon engine in 2010 and been STI re-mapped to 280bhp with over fuel.
About a month ago it started tapping and I thought it was the tappit's but I'm not so sure.
I've looked online for some common faults but none seem to match up!
It's not the oil, not the cam belt tensioner and not the turbo.
It sounds like the tapping is coming from the center of the engine but it's not knocking like the big ends have gone?
It tap's on tick over and when accelerating when I loose the throttle off it calms down and eases when cruising in top gear.
It does'nt go away when warmed up it's just constant but worse on tick over and when accelerating.
I have enclosed a link and I would be grateful for any help as this is the first boxer engine I've had anything to do with. In fact it' my first scooby!
Here's the link -

 

A few things to check if the noise has just started :

Make sure the spark plugs are tight as leaking compression pressure will sound like a ticking noise if the plug(s) are not seated.

Check for exhaust gas leaks around the header/cylinder head area and the up-pipe area.

Might possibly be a collapsed/ gummed up hydraulic lifter but unusual to happen unless the cylinder heads have been off for repair or an engine flush has been used on an oil change.

Hope this helps,

Mick

 

Ok, thanks. I have put different oil in it and it does seem to have got worse since.
I put a K&N oil filter and 5/50 comma motorsport oil could that of possibly upset it??

 

Oil too thin?

 

Sounds like shafted big ends to me!

 

Listen through a big screw driver or stethoscope to pin point the noise. Sounds like a knock or a blow on the video.

 

Update, she's died on me today!
I think ScottyPPP was right good call?
I was driving steady trying not to damage it any more it lost power started missing and just cut out. That was it game over!
I just managed to get another engine while I sort the original.
I think it's most definitely big end trouble not sure what yet til I get in there but I'm sure I'll need some more advice with the rebuild so thanks for all your help.

Geraint