Hi, I have a 2001 Exp. 5.4 L V8 that all of a sudden started making this clunking/knocking noise. I checked the oil which the level is fine but would love some feedback on what might be the problem. It has 165k miles and I am the second owner purchased from a private party about 3 months ago.
Thank you in Advance
Tam

 

You spun a bearing more than likely and will need a rebuilt engine or a new one.

 

Maybe a little more description is in order.
When the engine is running, varies with RPM?
Only when driving? etc.

 

I have a 2004 f150 with 5.4 and 215,000 kms. It does same thing. I am trying to figure out if it's a spun rod bearing or possibly one of the lash adjusters. I am confident that it's not the cam phasers as it's a hard knock and is noticeable at higher rpm. And i have a 2010 with the cam phaser noise. Truck throws no codes and runs great. Trying to figure out my next step.

 

I did spin a rod bearing once, and the knock quickly became a bang. Like, in 20 miles. Thought the engine was going to jump out of the hood and explode.

I'm not sure you can drive around with a spun rod bearing for any length of time. So if you just have a little knock and have been driving around with it like that for a time, might not be that.

 

I found what I hope is wrong with my truck. Popped the drivers side valve cover off and found a rocker that had failed. Going to replace that and the lash adjuster and see if the sound is gone. If the knock is gone, I will feel better putting some money into the motor (timing chains etc.)