Can anyone explain why this could be? On a cold start after sitting for approx. 36 hours the lifters, I think, sounds like they are dry as a bone. The command center says low oil pressure but within a couple of seconds goes away and sounds normal. I've heard about the anti-bleed back valve in the motocraft oil filter so that's what I use. A friend mentioned that it could be a lifter that some how got turned around. Ford has gone into the engine to replace the "cam phaser adjustment", not sure what that exactly how far they had to disassemble the engine. At 35700 miles this truck has had many problems, but I'm sticking with it. I've got to get it back to the shop for the eighth time before my warranty is up. I do have the extended warranty. Any help is greatly appreciated.
Xpress183

 

Dealer had to replace cam phaser and all lifters on my 04 5.4L. They said they heard two distinctly different noises which I could not distinguish.

 

I have the same problem, the dealer said "it's normal" their favorite words. I contributed the noise to, after a period of time the oil drains down into the pan and on start up, it take a few seconds for the oil to return back up to the lifters.

 

Thanks for the help.
Any info on whether this causes damage later on?

 

I suggest you pose this question on the "04-06" section on this site for the best response. Ask for 'Quinton' he will help.

 

Thanks bogman for the info. Just reposted it.
Xpress183

 

If it's oil related, it's the nature of the beast, especially if it's been sitting for 36 hours all the oil(except the filter)has drained back into the pan. On a cold start-up that's where most wear occurs because it take a few sec. for the oil to circulate to all the parts.

 

My 03 5.4 started doing it at about 50,000 and my 99 Explorer started at about the same time. Never had any engine failures but did notice that they started eating a little more oil between changes. It might just be normal engine wear.

 

Thanks for your help.

Xpress183