96 GMC Big Block lifter noise

[chopanegas]

I have a 96 Bluebird gasser with a big block GMC engine. It has 84000 miles on it and runs excellent! It had the oil changed @ 1000 miles ago. Recently I have noticed a ticking sound when the engine is running. It has just started and is not real noticeable. My question is this a common issue? I am planning a 300 mile round trip soon. Is this a major concern or perhaps an issue from running occasionally? I have owned the bus for a year and a half and have put 1500 miles on it!! Any ideas??
Thank You!!

[WARGEAR]

Ticking isn’t so bad, it’s when it becomes a clacking or a knocking noise that is room for concern. Ensure you put a correct weight of oil for the climate you drive. A big block Chevy will do nicely with a good quality 10w-40 for most climates. Synthetic vs Conventional is a hot topic, but neither will “hurt” your engine. Good quality oil and filter and it’ll keep on running

[bigskypc50]

What every you do don't go and run some kind of motor flush or some addtives.

If you have any oil leaks at all, consider switching to "high millage oil", like MAX Life. It has a tad bit more detergents and seal conditors, but keep in mind if you start using max-life and go back to non high millage you might start leaking again.

If's it a minor lifter tick that maxlife might help things.

[chopanegas]

Thanks for the reassurance! The engine sounds good. The tick is a new occurrence! Like to try and stay ahead of problems! No knocking or clunking..

[chopanegas]

I agree about adding any additives!! There are too many opinions about what is good or bad! I do not want to take a small issue and make it worse!!I have minor oil leaks around valve covers. Nothing that hits the ground so I am not too concerned!