... the alternator?!?!?
It sounds for all the world like a lifter problem, but the screwdriver stethescope indicates the valvetrain is making beautiful music.
I don't have any loose bolts on my exhaust manifold, and no backfires that would otherwise indicate an exhaust leak.
The only other thing that's moving on that side of the engine (the sound is very clearly from the passenger-side front) is the alternator. It appears to be charging well (the car always starts, and the accessories all run). The serpentine belt appears to be in good shape, but I haven't checked to make sure it isn't wobbling.
Is this something I just live with (once I've made sure everything's tight)?
JLW