2003 Chrysler Sebring Noise in top end of engine.

If possible, drive it to a shop where they can listen to the noise and give you a better idea what the noise is. Connecting rods are a big job that requires engine removal to get the crankshaft out. That's a job for an engine rebuilder. There are way too many things you can do wrong or not do to cause repeated failures.

Most of the engines don't use lifters anymore. They use "lash adjusters" that sit inside the "cam followers". Those are levers that the camshaft lobes push on to push the valves. The lash adjusters work just like tiny hydraulic lifters and they are housed in the tip of the cam follower and ride on the the end of the valve stem. About the only thing that could happen to a lash adjuster is they can develop a wear hole where they contact the valve stem and the oil leaks out. That allows them to bleed down and rattle. If they are all making noise, suspect a problem with insifficient oil pressure.

You could have a loose timing belt that is flopping against the cover. That is relatively minor compared to digging into the engine. That's why a professional opinion is a good idea.

Caradiodoc

Thanks for the tip. I actually saw a former coworker do that twice to clean excessive sludge on cars he bought. The additives in transmission fluid are different than what's found in engine oil. This is the first I've heard of it clearing up a noise.

Caradiodoc