I have recently bought a Westfield with a 1700 xflow engine fitted. The problem is that its making a knocking noise from cold which goes away when it warms up or if I increase the revs slightly. Could it be the big end bearings or a cam follower.
The reason for it starting to make the noise was because the breathing system was plumbed incorrectly and the catch tank filled up with oil when I went on a long trip. This meant the engine was down by about 1 litre of oil. The oil light came on once for about a second when I came to an abrubt stop but then went out and the oil pressure gauge always looked healthy at about 60psi. I know its a bit vague but any pointers would be much appreciated.

Stuart

Could be a big end but unlikely seeing as it only does it when cold.

Excessive wear in the cylinder bores could cause this as the noise disappears as the pistons expand with heat (piston slap)?

Just MHO.

I'm guessing if its a 1700 then it won't be wear in the bores due to it (probably) not being too long in the tooth. I would check the gaps between rocker arms and pushrods. If these are out they can tap madly and dissapear without trace when it warms up.
Could be a bearing but best to think positive!

If you want to know how to check the clearances, let me know.

Pete

thanks for the replys.

I dont think its the tappets as its more of a knock than a rattle. I am having it tuned up on Monday so hopefully they may know what it is.

Stuart

Its not overfull with oil is it ??
I've known of cases where a X-flow has been overfilled and the knocking noise is actually the crankshaft "slapping" the oil in the sump. It disappears when hot or when revved slightly as this pumps more oil through the system.
Can also be exaggerated by parking on a slope where the oil flows to the shallow end of the sump case.

Just a thought - jhdee