Toyota Camry: Valve Noise in 99 Camry

I have a 99 Toyota Camry 4 Cylinder with 85,000 miles. A few months ago I started to hear a ticking noise from the engine. The noise has gotten worse with the cold weather and is especially loud during a cold start and when accelerating at low speeds. It is really embarrassing to even have a passenger in the car now.

I have taken it to three mechanics, and they all said it was a valve noise. I don't think that two of them even looked at the valves -- just listened for the noise. The third mechanic said that the valve clearance was larger than it should be, but he wasn't that familiar with Toyota valves. The Toyota mechanic said that I could adjust the valves, but that it would cost $800-$900. All three acted like it wasn't a big deal.

Is this causing any engine damage?

Are there any oil additives that might help?

Thanks to anyone who can help. This noise is "driving" me crazy.

"EMC" <earthlink.net> wrote in message
news:talkaboutautos.com... 
started to hear a ticking noise from the engine. The noise has gotten worse
with the cold weather and is especially loud during a cold start and when
accelerating at low speeds. It is really embarrassing to even have a
passenger in the car now. 
noise. I don't think that two of them even looked at the valves -- just
listened for the noise. The third mechanic said that the valve clearance
was larger than it should be, but he wasn't that familiar with Toyota
valves. The Toyota mechanic said that I could adjust the valves, but that
it would cost $800-$900. All three acted like it wasn't a big deal. 

Strictly speaking, valve clearance is supposed to be correct, but, as its so
damn expensive and as long as it's not too loud ( like every one
rubber-necking at the awful noise) it should be OK.
Mine's got some valve noise at 100,000miles, but it is no more than some
other later fours I've heard,...Camrys that is. Heavier summer grade oil
(non-synthetic) does quiten them down somewhat I noticed (20-50 grade)

Jason

Jason