> The second thing i wanted to ask is about lifter noise. I've heard a lot
> about it here over the years but have never experienced it (or at least I
> don't think I have) - well I think I am experiencing this now - can anyone
> explain the sound this would make?
>

CLACK CLACK CLACK CLACK CLACK CLACK CLACK CLACK CLACK CLACK!

Sounds very mechanical, like a metal part somewhere inside the engine being
lightly hammered... which technically is the case, I suppose. Very similar
to pre-detonation pinging, but completely regular, rather than chaotic. It
clacks exactly once every two crank revolutions.
As the lifter pumps up, it fades to a duller CLUP CLUP CLUP noise and then
gradually goes away--- if your lifters are OK.

--
John Bange
'90 Vanagon - "Lastwagen"
'90 Vanagon GL - "Wiesel"