engine ticking noise

have this 78 silver aniversary L82 that developes a ticking noise after it is warmed up check value lash and replaced the exhaust manifolds. decent oil presure. maybe a heat riser/next step is to take all the belts off put it in the air and listen any suggestions out there

Mabye the fuel pump? I've heard a lot of stories about guys trying to find the source of a ticking noise that sounds like it is from the valve train but it turned out to be the fuel pump.

If you pinch the supply line to the fuel pump and keep it pinched for a few minutes. If the pump is making the noise it will change. Then let the line go, and the noise will return. Fuel pump. If it does not make any difference, keep looking at the normal stuff.

Don't overlook the possible small exhaust manifold leak. It can sound like a lifter. Rev the engine and the exhaust will change tone.

Lifter noise will just change speed with engine RPM but may not change tone. Oil pressure variations can change lifter noise, but this is a bit of a delay from just an RPM change.

Cam and timing chain noises are harder to find. Put a rod against the timeing cover and your ear, and listen. Also listen with the rod placed on the front edge of the intake. These tend to change a lot with RPM, without the delay of oil pressure change.

Good luck.