1997 f150 4x4 4.6 windsor with 145,000 miles. Have owned it since 68,000 and have used mobil one since then changed every 5,000 miles and always use motorcraft oil filters. I am getting a lifter noise at start up when it is cold (around 30* or lower). The truck runs great and the lifter noise goes away after about 30 seconds. I am just wondering if it is something I should be very worried about or if there is anything simple I can do to fix it. Thanks for any help!!

 

what oil grade are you using? and is it getting pressure right away? can you tell which side of the engine it is coming from?

 

I've always used 5w30 in the truck. The gauge says it is getting oil pressure right away. I have not had time to see if I can figure out what side it is coming from.

 

I have seen alot of times with these motors the oil bakes itself up under the valve covers and the front timing cover, sludge. 5w-30 oil synthetic or regular? Maybe resticted oil port or lifter?

 

I use synthetic oil. Any way to clean it out other than pulling the covers off? I will do that if I have to, but I have been sooo busy that I don't know if I would be able to find time any time soon.

 

It may also be an exhaust manifold leak that goes away after the engine warms up. I have a 1997 as well and the exhaust studs/nuts are getting scary looking. Try and locate the noise when you get time. Listen with a mechanics stethescope or a piece of hose against your ear as you move the opposite end around the area you think is making the noise. Another thing to check is remove the serpentine belt, if the noise is gone on startup then it could be a pulley or one of the other components such as a/c, p/s, alt, tensioner. Changing a lash adjuster or follower is not that hard to do. If you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself then any competent mechanic should have no problem replacing one. Good luck

 

Well, I used to be a ford mechanic but I did not work on the engine part of it. I am positive it is a lifter noise.