don't be discouraged, there is NOTHING wrong with your engine. you see, you have the C27A which is the same engine that was used in the 1987-1990 Acura Legend. these engines are imfamous for their lifter tick.

http://www.acura-legend.com/vbulleti...1/#post1214521

that is one solution, using auto-rx or seafoam can help reduce the lifter tick. another cure is to use lucas oil additive. best is to use both a seafoam/auto-rx and then add the lucas after you get done. I have 300k on my engine and it still ticks, but runs just as good...

as far as swapping in a 4cyl in place of the V6, you have to factor in putting in a new ECU, TCU, Trans, and a couple other small things. you need to, if you're going to swap engines, get one from japan run you about $450-500 on ebay or other places, after install about $1000.