Floated Valve?

[TODD 2000 V6 CAMARO]

Just curious (still trying to figure out what is wrong with my motor), what would it sound like if I floated a valve? Would there most likely be a serious "clackety clack" sort of noise coming from the engine? A co-worker said he thought that was what my symptoms sounded like. I can't hear any kind of knock or clang or anything coming from the engine. I dunno what to think. I finally broke down and made an appointment to get it looked at by the dealer on Tuesday. Man I wish I had some mechanical skills...

[Unusual95BlueBird]

Ummm, the term "floating valves" is refering to when you get into the upper RPM's of your engines range, your valve springs are not able to open and close as fast as the motor is trying to make them because of the lack of spring tension. This, in turn, makes the valves "float" in a 1/2 open position and can tend to make sum nasty clattering noises.

I know I kinda rambled a little with that one. Could have said it much easier in person.

[Kevin - Blown 95 TA]

The valve springs lose control of the valves, and this also is very hard on the springs due to the harmonics that occur. Maybe you got a busted spring or two? At some point, you may need to at least pop off the valve covers and see if everything looks OK in there.

[fastTa]

Just curious (still trying to figure out what is wrong with my motor), what would it sound like if I floated a valve? Would there most likely be a serious "clackety clack" sort of noise coming from the engine? A co-worker said he thought that was what my symptoms sounded like. I can't hear any kind of knock or clang or anything coming from the engine. I dunno what to think. I finally broke down and made an appointment to get it looked at by the dealer on Tuesday. Man I wish I had some mechanical skills...

Could be as simple as a valve lash adjustment. Could be a broken valve spring, rocker arm, or a lifter hanging in the bore.

Does it only do it only at startup and then go away after a minute or so? Does this only occur at higher RPM's while under load? Pull the valve cover first and check your valve lash. You will also be able to inspect the upper valve train while you're there.

[Buda]

could also be that the value springs have gone flat.