K20a making a Ticking noise (getting more noticeable)

[Chris_EK4]

Hi, my DC5 is making a ticking noise that is very noticeable on idle, goes up with the revs but can only hear it up to 3-4k, more noticeable on idle though. Its always done it (owned it 7 months) but lately its getting much more noticeable to the point of hearing it from inside the car now. My friends who have EP3's all do it but mine's the loudest, I've been told its possibly Worn chain tensioners, the engines just hit the 100k mark.

I don't think its bottom end as it would have gone by now if it was, and Its been driven hard and pulls strong, no miss firing etc, the car is running a tad rich as its got a gruppe, DC sports decat, 3'' cat back and hasn't been mapped yet, getting a puff of black smoke on heavy acceleration, don't know if it could be affected?

any ideas?

Thanks

 

[Mark_teg]

Get valve clearances checked / adjusted.
Check exhaust manifold for leaks at the gaskets, especially into the head.
Ensure oil is at the max mark, no lower!
And get it mapped.