I have a 53 Special with a three speed trans. I've had the head reworked, replaced the timing chain, the rocker assembly has been redone, rebuilt the generator, water pump, and carb. I keep getting valve train noise and would expect the car to be quieter. I've tried adjusting the valves, this seems to help occasionally, but it still sounds like a hundred crikets all chirping at once going down the road. This sounds like it's coming from the tappets, but I just can adjust it out. I have thought it might be an oiling problem (have not yet cleaned the pump or strainer) but with the valve cover off it seems to be getting oil. Any ideas our there or is this possibly common to straight eights?? Thanks for the help!!

Jason,
Every straight 8 I have ever heard was so quiet that you had to make sure it was running. I think the first thing you need to do is have someone that is familiar with engines listen to it and give you an idea as to the source. Then you can try to figure out the solution. Without actually hearing the noise, we would just be guessing as to the problem.