GM-GMC: engine noise, valve lifter, rislone

Question
hi, Ive got a 2002 silverado 4.3 L V6 with 85000 miles on it.  when its cold in the morning and I start it it ticks, tick increases with engine RPM.  I can drive about 2 or 3 miles then it will eventually quit.  I thought maybe a lifter wasn't priming up but wouldnt then there be a serious difference in engine perfomance?  What do you think this could be??    thanks,  Jake

Answer
It could be something in the exhaust system, but it is very likely a valve lifter.

There are a couple of products that you might try to help:

1) Rislone, which replaces a quart of oil during an oil change.
2) Valve Medic, which is about 10 oz of solvent that you add to the oil and is supposed to quiet noisy lifters very quickly.
3) Marvel Mystery Oil, which is like Rislone and should be added in no more than one quart amounts in place of oil during an oil change.