Chevrolet Repair: Engine noise, camaro z28, piston rings

Question
I own a 1994 Camaro z28 with the LT1 5.7 ltr  V8, the engine has a ticking noise coming from the drivers side valve cover, I thought I had a bad lifter, so I removed the intake and replaced all lifters with Sealed power OEM replacement lifters. At idle the noise in NOT present, however the ticking sound is still there above idle, also now the car ( when started cold ) really clatters when 1st started for about 2 seconds until oil pressure builds. after that it idles fine but the ticking noise is there above idle and when under load, the noise gets faster or slower with engine speed. Please help if you can, thanks

Answer
Hi Steve, Well as you know noises are the hardest thing to give a answer on because I can't hear it ! Check to make sure it isn't a exhaust leak at the manifold to head area. Check to make sure it isn't a loose spark plug, sounds dumb but I have seen it. OK now engine parts that could cause it...bad valve guides or broken piston rings.

Hope this helps

Mark