Any suggestions on what may be the problem on a ticking noise from the engine when it is first started? Doesn't last long and no warning lights or check engine lights ever come on. Thanks.

 

What oil filter are you running. If its a Fram or a cheapie from a lube place, replace it with a Motorcraft, Purolator, or a Wix.

 

most likely it is the catalatic converter. I have a 1999 mod f150 w/5.4l with 338k miles. I was hearing a solid noise from underneath that made me think it was a main bearing or worse. I took the f150 to the ford mech. he verified it was the catalytic converta. hope this helps.

 

x2

 

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll check out your ideas. Hopefully, it's something simple like you folks have suggested.

 

go look at the truck, come back inside (or post from your phone) and tell us what oil filter is on it





if it's a good oil filter then it's time to explore other areas

 

Check to see if you have some busted exhaust manifold studs.. Especially the rear cylinders (4 and 8).

That's what's 'ticking' on my 5.4..

Mitch

 

I have a 01 screw 4x4. 5.4 with 307k and mine has always ticked a lil when I first crank it since I bought it new hmmm is that fixable I thought it was a common problem on those engines. The dealership couldn't find anything wrong with it back when it was new and it obviously hasn't hurt anything since its still running.

 

Have you checked your spark plugs? Maybe they are getting loose and you may be hearing compression sneak past the threads.

 

Never thought about that I just assumed that's what the 5.4 does when you first crank it. Ill check that out.

 

That's Right, - just before they blow.

Otherwise these are very quiet engines. Well, unless you put your ear next to the tailpipe hole.

 

Mine is very quiet except for when u first start it up it ticks for about 3 or 4 seconds then it stops always have since new cold or hot engine cold or hot weather it always has. Lol I hope it won't blow it has 307000 plus miles on it and I've only changed plus coil packs intake and radiator since new and it is still strong. The other day I was pulling up a steep hill offeoad and I mashed the gas and it bogged down like it was weak. I was told it could be the torque converter not transferring power. It wasnt slipping or anything just bogging down. What do you guys think

 

I am only thinking about buying the truck but I wanted suggestions on what could be wrong with the truck. I would definetly look at the filter and reply back on the brand if I had the truck here and could look at it. If it is something major going on with the truck, I will stay clear and not buy the truck. The guy said a mechanic checked it out but couldn't diagnose a problem. Not sure if that is good or bad. Thanks and if anyone has any more suggestions just let me know. Thanks.

 

Yea, the filter should be white not orange lol, seriously. It should be white and say "Motorcraft" FL820.

What kind of mechanic was it ? A Ford Tech ? There's allot of those here. Listen to who you want, - IF you purchase this vehicle, check all plugs to see if they're tight. Yea, that's difficult if not impossible if the vehicle isn't yours yet. Anyway, that's a big problem with these vehicles and if you ignore it, - it will cost you much more in the end, that's all. Good luck finding yourself a good one

 

My 2003 SCAB with the 5.4l used to make a clattering/ticking noise when first started, I found that if I turned the key to the run position and wait for a few seconds (While putting on my seatbelt) before I turn it to start, no clattering/ticking noise, just the sweet sound of that big V8 coming to life!!!

I also starts easier, less than a turn or two, when I wait; more than three or four turns if I don't wait and just turn the key straight to start.

Leads me to believe in my case that the fuel pump may be weak and it takes a second or to to come up to full pressure.