AL, if it's noisy when starting up after oil change with dry filter, it's a pressure fed bearing like main or rod...... it will talk to ya. If not could be small end rod bearing on piston end. They can make noise for a loooong time with no consequenses. I've also had a windage tray break loose. Actually pulled the motor in the AM expecting major damage then put it back in with a washer on the tray bolts and was racing the same day! That was 20 yrs ago and the motors is still running great!
I also had oil dipstick rattle, so I use a stock length just to check level, although oil is in and out so often nothing varies. I cut another dipstick about 6" down from the deck and tack welded the depth washer in place. No more noise there. The sound from the dipstick is more of a metalic higher pitch though. Larry
Al - you had the whole buick community at your disposal a few weeks ago at BPG Nats ... did you ask anyone then ? Heck, JW was 10 feet from your car !!