What is the latest info on the piston slap problem? I have had my 1999 5.4l in the shop twice. They say they can never duplicate the problem. I have 76000 miles on my truck. I tell the dealer it sounds like a solid lifter cam tap only louder almost like the sound of a diesel engine. Any sugestions???

 

Welcome...

Do a search, there's a ton of information on this topic from advice on how to deal with this from the dealer persective as well as some home brewed semi-remedies that at least reduce the slapping.

I have a slapping 5.4 and I'm living with it. The jury is out on wether or not it's even that big of a deal. Some of us have received replacement engines, some of us are living with it, some of us got rid of trucks because of it. Since you're out of warranty, unless you have an extended warranty, you're out of luck.

My solution to it is using a high flow oil filter like K&N, Purolator Pure 1 or Motorcraft and Mobil 1 - 0w-30 synthetic oil. The slapping in my motor is barely noticeable and only on really cold days for a few seconds during start-up.

Good luck...

 

I don't think the search feature is working yet. But I seem to recall some members having a hard time proving to the dealer that they had the "slap". What they did was leave the truck with them overnight (outside if possible). Then came back in the morning and with everyone present, start the thing up and look them straight in the eye and say "that's what I'm talking about"..........

 

Please refresh my memory...

Have the 2001 model 5.4l's had problems with the piston slap?

My engine taps on start, but it goes away in about 30 seconds.

My 289 does the same thing, on cool days, or after sitting awhile.
I have always thought it was the lifters, tapping until they received enuff oil.

R1968