Hi,

I'm getting a noise that sounds a lot like tappets, but only when the car's not fully warmed up. I hear it more when the car is colder, and more when I accelerate hard, at lower rpms. If I'm very gentle, I don't hear it at all. the car is a '99 LX 2.3 liter, 5 speed with 146K. Any ideas what's going on? Thanks! David

 

You might consider a valve adjustment;[thats a lot of miles]however keep in mind that the valve lash clearance is a litle larger with a cold engine, and also the oil splashing around inside the valve cover acts as a sound dampner.

there is a tech line service news article "noisy valves are happy valves"

Over-tight valve lash will cause problems and possible damage.