> wrote in message
ps.com...
>I threw in some oil detergent, it didn't seem to help. I did a
> compression test. All cylinders were just over 180PSI. On #3 the guage
> needle wouldn't jump every couple strokes. It was missing the
> compression. I guess a valve wasn't sealing properly or something.
> Weird, I took the valve cover off again, and took both springs from
> that cylinder out, and they both seemed fine. I guess the head has to
> come off to check next.
>
> I also ran the engine and took spark off each cylinder one at time, and
> the noise did not change whatsoever on any cylinder. It's definetly
> top-end.
>
> One other curious thing is that the noise almost seems to float (in
> pitch and volume) just above idle.
>
> Any other help would be apreciated, thanks.

Check the EGR valve plate for blown gasket. Also look for crack in the
exhaust manifold. small crack or leaks in exhaust can sometimes mimic the
clacking of bad valves or bearings. I know you think its a metal on metal
sound but trust me> I've had several cars in that had similar noises and
similar fixes from other "professionals".