1.2SX tappets

[Simon]

Following a Fiat dealer oil change, at 53k my 99T Brava has developed an intermittent tappet noise. Doesn't do it when cold, but usually does it after properly warmed up and slowing after reasonably high speed run. The loud tapping eventually stops though.
Has anyone else encountered this fault, and found a reasonable cost solution?

I've been quoted £850 by a Fiat specialist to strip the head and replace all 16 tappets plus then replace cam belt - it doesn't make sense to invest that much in a 12 year old car.

 

[jords]

may be worth shopping around to beat that price mate, seems very expensive.

my mechanic quoted £7.80 per tappet (x16) and 3-4 hours labour. 1-2 hours to strip belts and head, and 1-2 hours to replace and resit tappets and reassemble = 229.80 if labour charged at £35 an hour and takes 3 hours, £264.80 if it takes 4 hours.

Apart from that have you tried any oil additives? If your engine has done higher mileage then the fresh oil may not be lubricating the tappets to the best of its abilities. That would make sense as the noise is only coming when the engine (and oil) is warmed up. When the oil is warmed up it thins out.

Try Wynns oil additive for petrol engines, or Extralube ZX1 - thats well expensive though about £25 a go. But it does sometimes work.

hope this helps...