Q&A

It is heavier than a ticking but it its not knocking, it sounds more towards the top. Is it difficult to remove the valve covers?

How many miles are in the truck?

Zee

168,000

It's easy to remove the valve covers to inspect the valve train. Each should take about an hour to remove-reinstall. You need to replace the gaskets if you remove the covers. If you need instructions I can send them to you, but you need to post an e-mail.
Was it started to make the noise after or soon after an oil and filter change?
There is a tech. service bulletin for incorrectly manufactured oil filters:

Engine - Noise/Damage Oil Filter Application Importance

INFORMATION

Bulletin No.: 07-06-01-016B

Date: July 27, 2009

Subject: Information on Internal Engine Noise or Damage After Oil Filter Replacement
Models:
2010 and Prior Passenger Cars and Trucks (Including Saturn)
2010 and Prior HUMMER H2, H3
2009 and Prior Saab 9-7X

Supercede:
This bulletin is being updated to add model years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 07-06-01-016A (Section 06 - Engine/Propulsion System).

Important
Engine damage that is the result of an incorrect or improperly installed engine oil filter is not a warrantable claim. The best way to avoid oil filter quality concerns is to purchase ACDelco(R) oil filters directly from GMSPO.

Oil filter misapplication may cause abnormal engine noise or internal damage. Always utilize the most recent parts information to ensure the correct part number filter is installed when replacing oil filters. Do not rely on physical dimensions alone. Counterfeit copies of name brand parts have been discovered in some aftermarket parts systems. Always ensure the parts you install are from a trusted source. Improper oil filter installation may result in catastrophic engine damage.

Refer to the appropriate Service Information (SI) installation instructions when replacing any oil filter and pay particular attention to procedures for proper cartridge filter element alignment. If the diagnostics in SI (Engine Mechanical) lead to the oil filter as the cause of the internal engine noise or damage, dealers should submit a field product report. Refer to Corporate Bulletin Number 02-00-89-002I (Information for Dealers on How to Submit a Field Product Report).

Zee

I had my first oil change since owning the Suburban 2 months ago and 2,000 miles, could this be the problem, I used a Valvoline Instant oil place.

I don't know what type of oil filter they used, but as you can see GM strongly suggest to use nothing else but the OE ACDelco filter to prevent serious engine damage. I doubt that a quick lube place would have these informations or have access to manufacturer's technical bulletins.
Most of the times they don't even use the correct oil.

Zee

If it was the incorrect filter is the damage already done or is the new filter just preventing oil to get in the right places?

It's hard to answer to this question without further diagnostic / checks. Lack of oil usually causes permanent damages, if there was some oil, but not the required quantity the problem could be fixed i.e.: not enough oil for the lifters.
You can check something, rev up the warm engine couple of times, cut off the engine, pull out the dipstick and see if the oil is aerated on it - if there are many small bubbles in the oil.

Zee

What would that tell me?

If the motor oil is aerated there is a leak between the pump and the oil pick-up screen- usually a hardened up O ring - and air enters the system. Since air can be compressed, the hydraulic lifters won't work correctly and that could cause a ticking noise.
This problem could be easily repaired by removing the oil pan and reseal the pick-up tube.

Zee

Thanks I'll try that. I wont need to remove motor to remove pan will I?

No, but it still takes about 3-4 hours, depends on the transmission (manual-auto) and if 2WD or 4WD.
Just check the oil first, if it's not aerated -no tiny bubbles at all - there is no reason to remove the pan, the problem is somewhere else.
If you see bubbles I can send you instructions for the pan removal.

Zee