Mitsubishi Repair: 93 eclipse, torque converter clutch, oil cleaner

Question
i have a 93 eclipse 1.8 it has a ticking noise all the time ,if i accelerate  hard it will stop for a little but stars again ,i but a oil cleaner  and it stop making noise for a day but the next day it started again ,i was told it could be the valve lashes ,that there probably clogged up ,do you think it could be the lashes ,the noise i coming from on top were the cover is at  

Answer
Hi Epitacio,

I would have to say that chances are good it's the lash adjusters. The lash adjusters have holes in them that allow for oil flow and it's possible for them to become clogged. That is an area I generally won't mess with (I have before but generally won't) as I'm uncomfortable opening the engine. According to my book, this can be a detailed process. Not necessarily difficult but highly detailed. It calls for the timing belt to be displaced from the camshaft sprocket. This will allow for removal of the camshaft and bearings, once the rocker arms have been removed, as to allow access to the lash adjusters. The lash adjusters are then submerged in diesel fuel for cleaning. Should the lash adjuster or rocker arm be in need of replacement, both the rocker arm and the lash adjuster should be replaced.

My book lists the following not for ticking but for 'Knocking or Pings':

Distributor
Camshaft Sensor/Distributor Pick-up
IgnitionModule/Engine Computer (ECU)
Torque Converter Clutch
PCV System

If you're a repair type person, you may want to try it yourself. However, you'll want to insure that you understand how to reinstall the lash adjusters and rocker arms properly as to insure the correct valve lash. Depending on the vehicle it can be quite easy or quite testy. You may also want to get a manual on your vehicle. They're available at most parts stores, inexpensive and a wealth of information. It will tell you the proper installation for your particular lash adjusters and rocker arms and how to adjust them for the correct valve lash. You'll also want to insure you have the proper torque on the bolts that secure the covers as oil leaks can occur not only from under torquing the bolts but from over torquing them as well.

Thanks for the question! I had to do some reading on this and in the process gained a little more knowledge myself. Hope I could be of some assistance.

Good Luck!