since about mid summer my engine has made a ticking/clicking sound when I started it. At first it did not occur all the time, and would go away fairly quickly. Now that is has been constantly sub zero temperatures it happens every time I start it. It is very loud and takes about a minute or 2 to go away.

Now I figure its my valve clearances that need to be adjusted. But If anyone has an other suggestions before I take off the rocker cover and go messing around with that I would appreciate it.

(and yes the rate at which it ticks and clicks increases with the RPM)

 

It could be that you need to adjust the valve clearance, though I would first check whether the engine oil is low. Also be sure to use 5W-30 oil as opposed to more viscous oils that take longer to pump up to the head.

 

yeah, b/4 going to the valve clearance, look at the motor oil. a lot of place put in 10w-30 which makes no sense to me. always use 5w-30.