The ticking sounds like it's multiple ticks in different orders....I'm think injectors or plugs

 

The phasers are the cam sprockets that control the cams advance or retard amounts. They aren't that hard to replace, both valve covers have to come off and there is a wedge tool that keeps the chains from falling into the engine when the phaser is removed.

 

I changed my vct solenoids today, it didn't make the diesel sound stop though. I think I'm just going to deal with it for now. Other than the sound at idle the truck is running really good no hesitation or rough idle so ill deal for now. I've been keeping up on my oil changes using full synthetic and recommended filter, I've cleaned MAF sensor and throttle body. Next is plugs, I'm not sure if they've ever been changed and it has 105,000 on it. But it is a one owner vehicle so I'm figuring he took real good care of it. I wish I could get an oasis report if anyone could ill post the vin#. Thanks.

 

You can get the oasis report from your local ford dealer

 

I got an engine code PO420 catalyst system below fresh hold bank 1

 

Could be an 02 sensor issue , program issue or cat issue . I usually see o2 or cats cause that .