So I finally got everything back together on this car. Rebuilt head, all new seals, gaskets, timing belt, water pump, etc.

But now there is some tapping/ valve train noise. Also there is a rough idle. The noise seems to go away when I rev above 2500 RPM.

I also had a P0014 code but I fixed a coolant leak reset the codes and now it's no longer throwing the code.

I have about three different heads so I am going to try a different VVT solenoid as I read this could be a possible cause. So questions are:

Is the timing off a tooth on the timing belt? I checked and double checked when I put it together and it looked right but the timing belt cover isn't exactly precise. Is there anyway to tell if it is exactly right?

Is it possible that I didn't install the VVT gear properly.

What else could be going on?

The weird thing was when I first started it up there was a lot of valve noise, tapping etc. But then after it ran for a while it was running really well. Then all of a sudden it started with the erratic idle, hunting, etc.

Please help me I have to get this car done today and really hope I don't have to take the timing belt off.

 

Sounds like timing is off a bit.

 

so I redid the timing belt and it is running great. It was a tooth off and I had the VVT set wrong as well. But now I have an exhaust leak and I can't seem to find it.

Is there a good process to figure out where it is coming from. When I isntalled the new manifold gaskets I didn't put any sealant on them. I did put a small amount just to hold them in place for when I put the head back on.

Any advice is appreciated. Thanks

Also there are no CELs on.

Sean