I recently developed a loud ticking noise from my 4.3. I removed the belt and no change. So I grabbed a length of heater hose and found the ticking is coming from between the starter and block. Checked same location on the drivers side and no noise there. This is my first post but I've been searching posts all night before I decided to ask. Love the sight BTW!

 

Oh and there was a loud squealing sound but it has since stopped.

 

I had a small ticking in mine, after looking g around I saw the spark plug was loose. After tightening it up it no longer ticks. Maybe look into that

 

Thanks for the reply swanman35. Checked all, even on drivers side. All tight.

 

You're welvome. sorry I can't be much more help, I'm learning from the people on this site. I'm sure someone will eventually help you out, this site is full of amazing people.

 

It could be a small exhaust leak in the exhaust manifold. Sometimes exhaust leaks sound like a ticking noise.

 

it could be the starter tapping on the flywheel. i would check that too.

 

sorry to jack your thread but my '97 4.3 blazer is making the same clicking noise on the passenger side underneath the hood. I also flipped the serpentine belt and no change. Spun all the pulleys with the belt off and no catching or squealing. posting a video of idle and slight reving. IMG_2199_zpsc49b7377.mp4 Video by YoungSS | Photobucket
Im leaning towards something under passenger valve cover. Idle is normal and there is no hesitation during acceleration. I will also check this loose spark plug theory. anymore thoughts are appreciated.

 

I had to replace my lifters on my 97, I hope yours aren't going bad it's not a fun job. Just my .02

 

4x4gs10b, Did you have the same symptoms? normal idle and no hesitation? just the clicking?