hey guys thanks for the input, havent had much time to take a look at things myselft but luckily I was able to get it to a dealer and have it checked for free. Here'* what they found: Misfires on cylinders 3 and 6 - no spark on those. Ignition control module is apparently causing the misfires. How much would one of these run or does anyone happen to have an extra one?

3-6 would be a bad coil. Not the ICM

hmmmm well i did swap that coil with a brand new one and there was no change at all. if the misfire is random/multiple couldn't the ICM still be at fault?

if i remember correctly i may have a spare ICM around somewhere so ill try swapping if I come across it

Typically yes, however a bad ICM can keep the coil from firing. A GM dealership would have the equipment to test an ICM properly... versus an autozone/advance that tests them and gets suspect results.

If you swapped coils, then check the tabs on the ICM. If one of those tabs is damaged then you will need to change out the ICM.

Good thinking, I almost missed that. I will check the tabs tomorrow. No luck on finding the spare ICM. Does anyone have an extra willing to sell?

Finally got the new ICM and installed it yesterday. Car runs much better but there is still a ticking sound. I believe I have a bent pushrod according to the dealers diagnosis. How difficult is it to change out a pushrod? I opended up the valve cover yesterday to take a look and I think I will attempt this once I can order a new push rod.

I have a few used sets of pushrods laying around if you are looking for a low cost set.

Pushrods are relatively easy. Pull the valve covers, remove the rockers, then the pushrods can be removed and replaced. Using reusable rocker bolts, reassemble.

Oh..BTW, I have those too. Your stock bolts are torque to yield and are not reusable.

Bill make sure your "spare" parts are not what he needs. Did we notice what kind of engine he has. Or does this not make a difference what he has referencing the pushrods?