ok thanks for all the suggestions on finding the location of the sound. i've taken the valve cover off and i can't SEE anything strange. the noise seems to be coming from the top of the motor. there is no play on any valve/rocker/pushrod regardless if the engine is cold or hot. should there be?

i've got a auto stethoscope on order from amazon and should be here tomorrow but its driving me crazy. the motor is brand new and i'm concerned that this may mean more than a simple adjustment.

any thoughts on that?

also, is there a procedure to adjust hydraulic lifters/valves?