Thread: 3.8 lifter problem

I have a 2003 chevy monte carlo SS 3.8 .I just finished installing a atk motor from advanced auto parts.the problem is the lifters are noisey and sound like they are not pumping up.

I primed the engine before starting.engine has normal oil pressure but on initial start up the rockers and lifters are noisey.Maybe when this motor was built they forgot to install a oil gally plug?I let this engine run for about 10 minutes and noise is still there.LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT CAME ON AND OIL PRESSURE DROPPED TO 0!!! I shut engine off and started it back up and oil pressure returned to normal???? WEIRD!!fI had a simuliar problem with a ford small block and it was a oil galley plug.Anyone on here had a problem like this with their 3800? i paid $1900 for this motor and i am a bit upset about this problem!! I am thinking about sending this motor back..

Any input would be greatly appreciated

Was this engine a short block, or a long block?
I would hook up a mechanical oil pressure gauge to get accurate numbers. Pull the valve covers off and look for oil flow.

Long block.Will do that tomorrow.Will post up what i find..Thanks..

Well engine has oil getting to the top of the motor.Motor is still clicking.I could not get my old knock sensors out of the old engine.Maybe its pinging because i dont have any knock sensors?