So with my engine making lifter noises, it finally happened. A loud clanking from the passenger side. So now I have a project Rodeo on my hands. I took out the injectors on that side and are going to get them inspected for correct pressure (found gas along the backside of the valve cover and notice one of the o-rings is the incorrect size). I also found oil build up on my spark plugs so Im going to get a gaket set for the valve cover as well as the spark plug o-rings. I also change out the plugs from Champion's to NGK Platinums which I have had good success. The next chance I get Im going to look under the valve cover. I got all but one bolt off. The one that is stuck is the one on the top and in the back right under the A/C and heater hoses.


Im hoping its not a rod that busted because shops out here, including Isuzu, want about $2000 to fix the problem. So with that, Im thinking of just buying a used motor which Ive found for less than $1500, with about the same miles or less.