Brought 1997 88K mi F150 4.6L to shop to diagnose "noise". Noise occurs at >2000 RPMs, generally when putting foot on the clutch (correlates more with high RPM's than putting foot on the clutch). Noise does NOT occur at idle RPM's. Sounds like metal bar rapping against another piece of metal...kind of like dieseling but with metal.

Shop suggested bad rods and maybe had wrong weight oil in it. Said need new engine for $5k. Said had no oil in it (1 qt). However, could find no oil leak, I have no leak on driveway, no evidence of burning oil, the check engine light/oil indicator light NEVER came on, and truck performance was not affected. Didn't check dipstick myself before I brought it in, can only assume their "no oil/~1 qt" comment is accurate. I believe it's 8k miles since last Jiffy oil change.

Thoughts? Is this believeable? Doesn't seem likely because there issue should be noticed all the time the engine is running.

Thanks for your thoughts.

[This message has been edited by Northridge (edited 05-21-2001).]

 

Northridge,

Did your oil gauge ever show low? Did your "check gauge" or "check engine" light ever come on? Did you hear rocker/lifter noise? If no to the above, check the oil level on the dip stick. If it is touching anywhere I would drive out as fast as I could and get a second opinion.

If it only make the noise when you are on the clutch it might be a throw out bearing.