[DeTomaso] Thus quoth the raven...(IE what's that tapping?)

[JDeRyke at aol.com]

Chris, diagnosing a noise long-distance is real close to impossible. There 
are SO many possibilities, from minor to 'stop-the-engine-right-now! Get 
yourself a stethoscope from the parts store and localize the sound. If its 
coming from the block, its usually serious but if its coming from a rocker 
cover, it usually isn't. Second option: take it to an expert- and it likely won't 
be your local mechanics. Good luck- J DeRyke