When starting my "72 coupe, 350 cu. inch, I get a loud ticking noise in the area of the fan and water pump. This only happens when engine is cold, and goes away after engine warms up. There is no antifreeze leaking, and no smell of antifreeze. Could I have a bad water pump,or might this be something else? (No problems with overheating either).

I had a similar problem like that a few years ago on our '94 GMC Jimmy. Turned out to be a bad motor mount. The tip of the fan blade would just ever so slightly touch the shroud. Only when the engine was cold. After it warmed up, it was gone. .
Or maybe the impeller in the water pump may be rubbing the back plate on the pump. If you have a mechanic's stethescope that may help you pinpoint your noise.
Good luck!
Sarge

I didnt know I had a next door nieghbor in here,I live on the east side of Binghamton welcome nieghbor

LOL!! Sorry Ron, I've had it with upstate NY winters. I just bought a home in Sun City Hilton Head, about 13 miles from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina....gonna use my vettes and boat ALL YEAR!!

I gave up on NY winters and am in the process of moving to FL. I spent a good part of the winter there this year and hope to spend 12/forever after May. I love heat and sun and I have alot of catching up to do.

NY summers are great, just not long enough for me.

|UPDATED|3/26/2004 4:23:36 PM (AZT)|/UPDATED|

Try this too, loosen the belt for the pump and grab the top and bottom of the fan blade, gently do a push - pull or up and down on the blade to see if you have movement in the water pump shaft, if you have noticeable play, the pump bushing is worn and will fail.