So the tardis is still going strong. Still smooth but now I've done about 1000 miles on top of the 117,000 miles, it's started sounding like a van when under 3000 revs. Over that it still sounds amazing . I know this is because I'm rougher with it than the previous owners and tbh I don't feel that bad about it, it wasn't mint after all.

So my question to you people who've had this in the past (or currently?) is; is it going to get worse? If so how quickly? I've got plenty of time to strip it down if it needs it.

Apologies. What engine is it? Tappets are adjustable but different engines have different methods.

Sorry, B14 1.7

I'm still not clear. Sorry you've given two different types there......B14=1397cc: B172=1721cc.

B14 is OHV and needs nothing more than a couple of spanners and a set of feeler gauges to set the tappets. Should be done at least once a year.

B172 is OHC and clearances are set by shims and a special tool is needed to wind the tappets down so you can get the shim out. You can at least measure them though and then see if it needs doing. Should be checked once every 4 years, when you renew the cambelt also.

lol, I'm still a noob sorry. I meant B172 thanks

OK right, see above then, easy peasy to check the clearance, turn engine over until cams are clear of valve, slide feeler gauge, check against specs....more of a PITA to actually adjust, but once set lasts for much longer.