[ryan]

On a '66 fastback I have a 289 when the car is running we hear this tap noise. The mechanic tells me that it is due to short skirts on the TRW valves and that is what causes the tap nosie. The mechanic says this is normal and it will be ok and there is no major problems. Is the mechanic right about these TRW valves? My other question is regarding 302 engines. It is crossing my my mind to replace my 289 wiht a 302. Will all things work together or will it be to much of a hastle to change. ALso the 289 only has about 15k miles on it. What should i do keep the 289 or replace it. And is the mechanic right about hte TRW valves? Please post back please thank you

-Ryan

[rodbender]

Valves don't have skirts. Pistons do.Typically a ticking sound is usually in the valve train. If the sound is more of a"tock" it is feasible that it could be piston slap. A motor with only 15k (with hydraulic lifters) shouldn't do either. It may be that the rockers need adjustment. As far as replacing the 289 with a 302, you won't be gaining anything. Myself, I'd keep the engine where it's at.

[Acooljt]

I'd listen to Dan, he knows his sh*t. And I couldn't agree more with him about leaving that 289 in there. I'm not saying 302's are bad motors, but they're glorified more than they should be. They are not the holy-grail of Ford motors as they're made out to be. You can do anything with a 289 that you can with a 302.

[ryan]

thanks ill look at those things and see if that is where the noise is coming from and ill keep the 289 the 302 was only a thought anyways, thanks.

-ryan