So, I took my Monte in to be inspected and have the oil changed here at the local Chevrolet dealer last week. They inspected hoses, mounts, belts, etc and they all checked out. I had them do a full synthetic oil change and they showed me I have a minor oil leak and I need to replace the pan with the new aluminum one and replace the gasket, which is no big deal. The leak is so small its not dripping on the ground or anything so they said I have a while before needing to do so. That's all fine dandy, but my issue now is on my way home and everyday since last thursday there is a ticking that sounds like its coming from the back of the engine bay. It is only at idle and up to 1500 rpms that I hear it, it just sounds like shaking a spray can. The car doesn't drive any different but it's just annoying. Maybe a lifter? I don't know what kind of oil was in it before. Probably wasn't synthetic I'm thinking. Any advice is welcome.

 

Could be an exhaust leak?

Do you have the 3400? Those are known tickers are cold start-ups.

 

Sorry, I could have been a little more specific. It's a 3800, and the sound wasn't there before the change only after.

 

They aren't known for lifter issues. I would spray a little soapy water around the exhaust manifold and see if it bubbles

 

Maybe u need to tighten the rocker arms, which are located under the valve covers. That might be the ticking nose,in the back of the bay. Good luck.

 

Is that something easy I could do myself or should I just have the dealership do it?

 

I would recommend doing it yourself, the amount that a dealership would charge just to look at it would probably be crazy

If your comfortable removing the valve covers and checking it out, then go for it. Despite the cost, a dealership or shop may be your best bet if this line of work scares you. No offense, just not sure what kind of mechanical skills or experience you have If I lived anywhere close to you I'd be willing to give you a hand.

 

Those bolts are torque to yield, if they need tightening, they need to be replaced

 

I find the oil pan leak a little, say suspect?? Unless you hit the pan on something or it rotted out, typically you DON'T need to replace the pan or it's gasket.
Perhaps the o-ring/seal on your drain plug needs replaced OR more likely is an upper oil leak (such as a valve cover gasket).

As for the ticking, that is a bit odd. 3100/3400's are KNOWN for cold start ticks, but the 3800, no so much. Check if anything is loose or failing exhaust gaskets. Hopefully it's something small and minor.

 

Our oil pans are actually quite common to get a gasket leak. Mine is doing it, but you need to drop the cradle to do the job, so until it gets REALLY BAD, or I need to drop the cradle for something, I deal with it.