Ticking from mid valve cover

[MECPInstaller]

The last few weeks i've had a fairly loud ticking sound, coming from the intake side of the valve cover around cylinders 2 and 3. Its a steady ticking that changes as i pull the throttle cable. I had a friend say it could be the lifters on the intake valves. One thing I've noticed along with the ticking was that instead of a steady exhaust, its got that unsteady v8 gurgle while its idling, its not too bad but you can definatly notice the uneven tone. I need to know a possible solution as soon as possible and if the part(s) thats ticking could cause problems, don't feel like having my car break down or blowing the engine. So if anyone can get back to me at what the problem might be it would and what parts i'd have to replace it would be a great help. On a small side note the engine uses sits at around 700 rpm at idle but since the ticking has gotten louder it sits alil below 700 more towards 600.

[PMan_S13]

might be a silly question, but have you checked the oil level?

Also it could be time for an oil change..

I'd also check the ignition for firing. You might be hearing some missing.. which could make the car idle low. Try unplugging the injectors one at a time while it running and see if the car reacts the same to each one. If one does not make it run worse, you have a missing cylinder.

Post back if you find anything else