I'm looking at a Dodge with a solid lifter 440, Holley duel feed and with headers.  Don't know any specs other than it has approx 6000 mi on a rebuild and exhaust work that was done last year.  The car starts and idles well but a noticeable popping noise from the passenger side.  I know what the solid lifters sound like and I know what a typical SB exhaust leak sounds like ticking.  Am I paranoid about an exhaust leak or is it possibly worse?

hey Max,

Popping sound hey? - mmm - mate of mine here in Australia had a similar thing. Believe it or not, it was a vacuum hose problem...I know you're thinking what? - but it was a very simple problem. I too had a 351 cleveland ford, it had a popping sound too. It was only at certain revs and load though...turned out to be the inside of the egr valve

(exhaust gas recirculator) valve had broken away and was flapping in the breeze...

otherwise - you could consider changing your oil to a thicker viscosity? - and check your rocker arms too - one may be split.

i hope this helps max. - cheers - fletch Australia.