Sorry. Its an 05, not an 08. I've got a little over 97K miles.

I've always had a slight tick on start up. My understanding was the lifter(s) bled down and takes a few moments to build up pressure. However, In the last week or two, the truck has begun ticking/pinging on acceleration or when driving up hill.
I've got no engine codes. The manual says it could be improper grade of fuel, fault in fuel or electrical system, improper spark plug(s), faulty emission system, or a vacuum leak. I haven't changed the plugs, so I don't see how they could be the wrong ones. The truck does have 90K+ miles and it may be time to replace the plugs since I don't recall if/when they were last replaced.

Here's what I've done so far; filled tank up with high octane fuel with some sea foam added, I slid under the truck to inspect the exhaust system for possible holes/leaks while it was running. I didn't see anything jump out saying look at me on the exhaust. I figured we'd drive the truck around (lightly/no hot roddin) and see if the higher octane fuel and/or sea foam correct the problem.

Have any of you encountered this or have any suggestions?

Ted

 

Plug change is overdue, should be done every 60k. Do NOT use Seafoam, use Techron.

 

I'm a bit "nerdy" and keep all my maintenance records. I took a quick peek and did not see any mention about plugs. Good thing I finished my homework for the week this afternoon. I'll be replacing the plugs in the morning
We'll see if that quiets things down some in there.
Thank you GLC.

Ted

 

Spoke with a few Ford Technicians.
They identified my ticking as a passenger side manifold leak. However, they also said my phasers are beginning to fail. I don't have any codes YET.
I'll take care of the exhaust manifold and spark plugs first. I'll wait for our tax refund to address the phasers, unless I start seeing new symptoms or performance gets worse.

Ted

 

GLC is spot on about plugs, and using techron. Run two tanks with Techron before you do the plugs. If you don't know the specifics about this engines problem with changing plugs, do your research now.
The same goes with the exhaust manifold. Do your research.
In my opinion, I would do the plugs first.