I have a 92' Ford Ranger with 2.9 V6. It has 220,000 miles with original engine and transmission. I need a new A/C compressor, accumulator, and orifice tube. Already had hoses replaced. I have a couple questions.

Right now, A/C repairs are probably first priority now that Arizona summer heat is in full effect.

Now I am also hearing a rattle or ticking under the valve cover that cycles every seven seconds. The ticking seems to disappear when then engine has heated up.

Is this evidence of needing valve job?

I also need a quart of oil every now and then. There is no blue smoke at tailpipe. I can see at least one slow leak at the timing chain cover oil seal area in front of engine behind water pump.

It looks like I eventually might need valve job, or maybe even engine overhaul in near future. I just want to make sure the A/C repair cost wouldn't be wasted. It looks like the Chilton manual says that only compressor would need to be removed and positioned out of way with hose connections intact--for engine removal.

But what about timing chain/oil seal replacement? Would compressor need to be disturbed at all?

Thanks,
Dave