it is going to be a couple days before I can get started but to be safe I am going to pull the valve covers and check the rockers.
I don't want to run it much with a known noise issue so I decided not to start it back up and run through the injectors. right when the noise started I got a little black smoke and then white smoke. now just mostly a little white smoke that it was not doing before.
I am sure the injectors are getting fuel the system has been primed well and run long enough to work any air issues out.
There was a definite pop/knock and then a constant ticking/knocking since. When the motor first starts, maybe 5 to 10 seconds the noise is not heard but becomes distinct pretty quick.
it sounds like a hydraulic lifter that is sticking except it is definitely constant and consistent with the rpm.
Strange you say your motor is loud. This motor is very quiet compared to the 6.2 I had. I have no exhaust at this time and no hood or fenders and this motor is not as loud as the 6.2 that was in it.
I have added roller rockers and the timing gear set to which both of those mods are supposed to help valve train noise and I think the really do help. I am tempted to not run a muffler, it is that quiet.
I have not played with the timing, it is currently lined up with the mark. It is turning 704 rpm at idle and it appears my tach is very close to being accurate. Have not had a chance to check it at different rpms.
I just have to roll with the punches, this truck has thrown a lot of them at me but It is what keeps me sane in my free time.
Rich