After $600..I still have a tapping noise >_<

[s13EastTN]

Well, after replacing the timing chain, I still have a tapping/knocking sound coming from my engine. It's not a bottom end knock. I've proded w/ a screwdriver for days and always hear it from the head. It sounds like a valve somewhat, because it has a very "small metal object hitting something else" sound too it. It's been doing this sound since the start of may, so I figure if it was something completely awful I would have had to buy a new engine long before now. Now, let me describe this sound for you the best I can:

It only makes this sound when I barely give it gas. I touch it enough to keep speed in most gears and it will make this sound. If I give it enough gas it will stop tapping/knocking. It's quieter in 5th gear and doesn't make this sound all the time. Sometimes it will be louder and on rare occasions not make the sound at all.

I can't see anything else than it being a valve or something either being upset/warped/worn out/broken and hitting some peice of metal. I do not loose power whenever it makes this sound if that helps any. Any help is appreciated, since its buggin the hell out of me.

[andrave]

prolly a lifter or bad valve seat or something of that nature. have the head looked at.