FYI, the hydraulic lifters in the sportage motor should be much like that of the 90-97 miatas. as long as this is the case, next time you do a timing belt, do yourself a favor. pull the cams out and pull all lifters out. pull them apart, clean them, re-assemble. i'd have to see a diagram for them to make sure, but it quiets them down. i've only had my truck for two days and instantly recognized the noise.

So, i bought an 01 Kia Sportage. before i even drove it, i nick-named it The Goat.. it has been just like a goat.. stubbern at every corner...