Expert: Ben Deutschman - 12/4/2009

Question
i have a 1983 dodge truck that has a 225 slant six. i have replaced ignition cap roter plugs plug wires carb. the valves rattle when excelerating could i have a vacume leak or what is up?

Answer
Given that your 1983 Slant-Six has Hydraulic Lifters, and assuming they are not noisy at idle, I would say you either have a vacuum leak, or the timing is out in left field. If you do not have any type of Computer controlled ignition system (Factory or Aftermarket), then I'd disconnect, and plug the Vacuum Advance Line, and check the static timing with a Timing Light. There should be a Decal under the Hood, showing the correct idle RPM, and Timing Specs for your Truck's Engine. If the Timing is set to spec, then I'd check all your vehicle's Vacuum Hoses, and carefully spray some Carburetor cleaner at any joints in the Carburetor, between the Carburetor and the Intake Manifold, and the  Intake Manifold and Cylinder Head, with the Engine running. BE VERY CAREFUL when spraying the Carburetor Cleaner near the Cylinder Head especially, since you are right above the Exhaust Manifold. When you spray the Cleaner, if you detect a change in Engine RPM, then you've found your leak.