Upper Engine Noise, Regardless of Engine Speed

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Condition	Action
Low oil pressure	Insufficient or poor oil supply to valve train. Perform oil pressure test. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Improper lubrication to the valve rocker arms	Inspect valve rocker arm and shaft, valve pushrod, oil filter bypass valve, oil pump and pump screen, and engine block oil galleries. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Excessive valve lash	Check the valve lash adjustment, and correct if above specifications. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Worn pushrod upper end ball	Inspect pushrod end ball. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Bent valve pushrod	Inspect valve pushrod and valve rocker arm. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Loose, worn or damaged valve rocker arm	Inspect valve rocker arm and rocker arm shaft. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Loose valve rocker arm attachments	Inspect valve rocker arm and rocker arm shaft. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Broken valve springs	Inspect valve springs. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Worn and/or damaged valve spring shims, seats, or keys	Inspect valve spring shims, seats, and keys. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Sticking valve	Carbon on the valve stem or valve seat may cause the valve to stick. Inspect valves and valve guides. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Missing or improperly positioned lifter guides	Inspect lifter guides. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Worn or faulty camshaft lobes	Inspect camshaft lobes. If damaged replace camshaft and all lifters.
Worn valve guide	Inspect the valves and valve guides. Repair or replace all damaged components.
Damaged or misaligned timing gears	Inspect timing gears. Replace all damaged components.