Soooooo, here is the deal. I learned a great deal about synthetic oil and this 20R. I replaced the head gasket and all other accessable seals. Instead of going to get oil, I noticed I had 4 quarts of synthetic that I use in my 04 4Runner and 07 Tundra. Started up, no leaks, good to go. After the second full tank of gas I checked the oil and it was down a full quart. So I filled it to full thinking that I might have under serviced. Two tanks of gas later, it was down a quart. I stopped by and talked with my RatRod buddies and they told me that the piston rings will never sear in older engines and synthetic. So, changed the oil back to organic or regular and then my valves started singing, not bad, just noticable. So I ran the truck for about 400 miles and decided today to adjust the valves. Their were a couple intakes that were too close so, I adjusted everything and started it back up, no difference.

Sooooo, I need some pointers. I adjusted the valves EXACTLY as the Toyota factory manual states, twice (just to make sure). Timing is perfect. Why the hell can I notice these valves now where before I couldn't??? Any pointers or opinions would be appreciated....

CHEERS!

 

There is a lot of detergent in synthetic oil. Sounds like it cleaned all the old crap off of the valve tips and rockers so it clatters.

 

I ended up pulling the exhaust manifold and 3 of the 4 chambers wer coated with oil... Since then, I have had a long block completed on the engine and the head was completely jacked up! The lower end was perfect requiring nothing but a set of new rings and bearing set... I am pleased with the net results!

cheers!