So i'm about to buy an 88 hatchtback, and the valve train seems to be awfully "Clicky". ITs not a loud click and when you rev the motor up it doesnt get louder and louder, it kind of gets drowned out. is it normal for that year engine to jus tbe sort of noisy? maybe the valves just need adjusting?

 

just need adjusting

 

Thas what I thought, I'm about to own a second hatchback whooooot!

 

****!

 

You should take the valve cover off, and see if the tappets are loose (if that model has tappets) and ifnot, grab some valve springs and see how much sideways movement they have. If they have lots, it's in need of a new set of valves and valve guides (which also means new or recut valve seats). Of course, if the tappets (if they have them) are just loose, than it's just a case of adjustment isn't it.

Hope this helps

 

Yes that year has tappets and I would adjust them first !

 

also did you check the oil level?