My 84 with a 1.9l engine sat since just before christmas when the water
pump went out. (I know, I should have replaced this in Aug when I had
the engine out) I finished replacing it today and started up the van.
Everything sounded normal with the expected loud lifters from the
extended sit. I let it idle for a while filling up the coolant and
mixing another batch. Then I took it out for a quick spin to move some
oil around. I drove about 4 houses down the street when I heard a
banging noise begin from the engine compartment.

My first thought was that the alternator bracket had broken loose from
the block. I eased it back home and found everything secure. I started
it back up and heard a distinct intermittent banging noise coming from
what sounded like under the AFM or even the block itself. I ran back up
and killed it but did notice that it wasn't consistent. Every few cycles
it might bang.

Any ideas? Have I destroyed valves with a pushrod that has come out of
line? A stuck valve that has caused further damage? I guess the good
news is I can pull this engine in about an hour now. Bad news is our
spring break trip to Aldamas is right around the corner in March.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Owen