Can a bad hydraulic lifter make that noise?

Also, in the above picture, there's a crimped copper tube between the gears. Is that supposed to drip oil? Any way to check that?

Last edited by Wally / Montana; 08/16/2020 11:40 PM.
1948 3/4-Ton 5-Window Flatbed Chevrolet

34 Years. Now with a '61 261, 848 head, Rochester Monojet carb, SM420 4-speed, 4.10 rear, dual reservoir MC, Bendix up front, 235/85R16 tires, 12-volt w/alternator, electric wipers and a modern radio in the glove box.