So recently I had to cut my exhaust and put it back on and limp it to my house. On the way there it started making a ticking noise but only after I wrapped it and clamped it. Apparently some people have said to much back pressure can cause the ticking. BTW it only ticks under load? Its a 1987 with a 302 in it.

 

Your gonna have to be more specific as to what you've done.

Sure your not hearing an exhaust leak?

 

I agree with Motorhead. A 1987 with a 302. We are going to need more information. And as he said, when someone mentions a 'tick' I always suspect an exhaust leak. So where exactly is the 'tick' coming from? Is this a completely stock engine? Is the only modification to the truck the exhaust? Oh and why did you 'have' to cut it and put it back on?

 

Well the previous owner messed with the exhaust so I cut it and had to clamp it on and tape it. No modifications and it didn't do it before the exhaust was cut. And also it sounds like it's coming from under the cab somewhat. So I'm starting to think it's that. But would that cause the motor to run a but slower or a bit sluggish?

 

Did you cut it before the o2 sensor?

Start it up, then slide underneath, run your hands around the clamp and tape and see if you can feel air moving. Just don't burn yourself. If you feel air being pushed out then it's probably just an exhaust leak. Most exhaust shops will run a cat back on our trucks for less than 500.00. So if you find a leak, that would probably be the cheapest option, as long as it's behind the cat.

As for the sluggish driving. There could be many possibilities. But start with the exhaust tick.