After IMS job, Engine has loud squeak from cylinder #4 area

[black_box]

I've developed an intermittent squeaking noise from the front left part of my engine head (around the #4 cylinder, I believe) after performing an IMS replacement on my 5 chain 3.2 motor. After IMS / Clutch, I replaced the gearbox and drove off for a couple miles, heard the noise and drove back, the car's been laid up since.

It only presents with load, and can be heard when blipping the throttle from idle, and also when accelerating or even just engaging the clutch against the brakes. It does not seem to be present when engine is at steady or falling RPM (except via slipping clutch method).

This video of the noise persisting was made by slipping the clutch a bit against the parking brake to load the engine a little:

Things I've tried that have not made noise go away:

removed exhaust except for manifold

removed serpentine belt (rules out water/PS pump/belt)

removed transmission (not clutch)

changed flywheel

removed oil fill cap (AOS not leaking vacuum)

changed out IMS bearing AGAIN

removed ignition fuse and turned over engine using starter w/ plugs in

None of these have made the noise go away. I should mention, I had to do A LOT of banging on the IMS shaft itself with impact driver to remove a stuck-on installation tool nut.

I am hitting the end of my rope. Please help.

Edited August 30, 2012 by black_box

[yuyokatana]

Loose Spark Plug,had the same exact sound

[Richard Hamilton]

+1

[phillipj]

+1

[black_box]

Plugs are all tight. noise is definitely coming from engine. Also the noise is dependent on crankcase load, not on throttle.

[black_box]

Oops, it was a plug! Thanks for the suggestions.

[phillipj]

Awesome!! :thumbup: That has happened to so many people including me.. Now you can sleep at night..