Howdy from Texas! A google search lead me to the F150 Forum. Even though I drive a 2003 4.6L 2WD EB Expedition I signed up. 2 days ago the normal "ticking" sound that I have heard since I bought it almost 100K ago changed from ticking at idle to major rattling in the passenger side valve cover/cylinder head. I trailered it home and have not had a chance to pull the valve cover off yet. Looking in the oil fill hole it looked dry??? Dip stick shows full. (3/4 up the hash marks on the dipstick.) No codes, Oil pressure is good according to the factory gauge. Temp is fine too.

1. If I have to replace the passenger side cylinder head... should I do the drivers side too?

2. 165K miles. Should I do timing chains too?

3. Anyone know anything about www.headsonly.com?

FYI I am not the original owner. Regular oil changes... recent alternator, water pump and radiator replacement.

Chris

 

Possible plug getting ready to be spit?
Check the torque on the plugs. Should be 28 ft/lbs. This is a very common issue with the 2v engines before they got the redesigned heads with 8 threads..

And you're at 165k but didn't mention you changed your plugs yet So I'd suggest getting 8 motorcraft plugs and changing them out while you're at it.

 

thelariat02 Thanks for the reply. Plugs were done 2.5 years ago. (40K-50K miles ago) but I will check them. sure would be nice if that was the issue....



Chris

 

No problem. Make sure you let us know what you find