Expert: Anthony Falcone - 5/7/2004

Question
1.8 Liter engine with a manual trans.  When I start it up, it sounds like a valve is clicking.  When I rev the engine sometimes it quits but then it comes back.  Is it a lifter sticking and should I try some additive to free the lifters?  Or do I need to get the valves adjusted?

Thanks,
John Young

Answer
John,
That clicking noise most likely are the lifters.  The lifters that Mitsubishi used in their Eclipses between '89-'99 had very small openings.  Those small openings restricted oil flow, and caused that clicking noise when the engine is cold and sometimes at idle.  Your lifter isn't sticking, it's just has restricted oil flow.  You will not need a valve adjustment.  

Next time you get an oil change, you may want to try a full-synthetic oil to help with the clicking.  5W-30 is recommended for your engine.  The synthetic oil can help ease some of the restriction because the better viscosity properties of a synthetic oil.  There may be some additives that could help, but if you use a synthetic oil, there is no need for any additives.
Good luck!