ok, finally got my 20k service done. I told the serviceman about the noisy tappets and he said he'll look into it, but did mention that it could be the injectors. so i did get the injectors cleaned in the service as it is "recommended" every 12 months. i picked up the car and was told that there is nothing above the norm with my tappets. so i thought it was my injectors, started the car and popped the hood and what do you know, i have a cricket going off like crazy in my engine bay. i didn't bother taking it up with the service center as all the mech's went home and only office staff remained. If my tappets are what they are meant to sound like i'll chuck the rolla in the bin tomorrow. my '89 civic was quieter that this.