My 2004 screw with 45,000 miles has had the dreaded engine knocking noise for a while now (5.4L). I've searched and read post after post about the engine noises, cam phaser replacement, injector ticking, etc... (the suggestion of turning the radio volume up works well). Took it to the dealer to see what they thought my truck's issue is. They claim that my problem is the lifters/lash adjusters. They stated that ford has a "thicker" lifter that eliminates the slop in valve-train and ends the knocking noise. They quoted $1118.00 to replace all 24 lifters. I specifically asked about cam phasers, they stated that that isn't the problem on my truck. Is this worth doing? Anybody else have the lash adjusters/lifters replaced and did it eliminate the knocking noise? Thanks.

 

Did you see this thread? You might try contacting this guy and see how his turned out.

https://www.f150online.com/forums/sh...lacing+lifters

 

I have a tread on my dad's 04 with 61k. We believe it has the same issue.

Parts cost per head is about $100 to change all of them if you order from Tasca ford's website. There is a special valve spring compressor that you'll need. I suggest a good service manual. You may or may not be able to change the lash adjusters without removing the camshaft. If my dad ever decides what he wants to do, I'll let you know if you can.

Basically its $900 or so in labor.

As far as the lifter being thicker, something has worn out of tolerance. The lash adjusters/lifters are hydraulic and should never need adjustment. There are 2 part numbers on the website. One says before a date in 04 the other says everything else.

 

It doesn't look like too bad of a job, if the cam doesn't have to come out. I'm thinking more and more about buying the spring compressor and lifters and doing the job myself. Comp-cams web-site seems to have good technicical info on complete removal and install of the 3V camshaft.

 

Had cam phasers and lifters replaced 2 years and 30K ago. Noise has been gone since. It took several days because the dealer broke 4 plugs off and had to replace both heads. My original dealer said there was no problem so I went to another dealer and got it all done under warranty. So try another dealer.