I would do it as soon as you can but I’ve heard one that sounded like the A/C compressor was eating itself from >100’ away. I went over and the guy said it was just the lifters and he was fixing to get around to getting it repaired.
I know the earlier model LS engines were prone to the exhaust manifold bolts breaking which gives tick sound. There are kits from Dorman to repair it.
I had heard of that issue before. I am having the exhaust manifold gaskets as well all at the same time.