I started my 2003 H2 w/ 39k yesterday and noticed a loud ticking sound. It almost sounded like a leaky donut gasket but when I opened the hood, it sounded more like a lifter or loose rocker. I found on the web there was an issue with the rockers loosing the needle bearings and being found in the oil pan. Is this possible? Anyone had any similar experience?

 

I've never heard of that. Does it do it all the time or just when it is cold and warming up?

 

It just started and it only does it after it sets 2-3 hours and thenm only for a couple of minutes.

 

My guess would be a warped exhaust manifold. Just enough that when it warms up, it seals itself off.

 

look at the rear bolt holding the exhaust manifold to the head, it's common for the head of the bolt to break off and cause a leak.

 

Talk about reviving an old thread.....

I just bought an 03 H2. I started it up an noticed a ticking sound from the drivers side near the injectors and exhaust manifold. The sound got quieter after a few minutes. Sure enough... I looked to the back of the engine and found two bolt heads missing from the exhaust, so I checked the other side which is not making any noise and one is missing from there.

I took it back to the dealer and showed them (Mom and Pop Dealership) and they said they would fix it no problem (replacing ALL the bolts) and thanked me for telling them what the issue was as they have several Hummers on the lot making that noise. I actually referred them to the forums since this is where I learned of the issue.

Basically, just a big thanks to the people here giving great experience info.