Doug,

I had a similiar sound coming from my 3.0 after changing the timing belt. I thought it was the lifters becuase the sound seemed to be coming from the top end. Well, after 3000 miles I decided to take a look. Sure enough the tensioner was loose. Re-adjusted and the sound went away. A look see at the belt is a bit easier than pulling the v-covers in my book (no gaskets).e

1989 Montero LS (sold)
1994 Cherokee Country bone stock