My engine clatters for a few seconds after starting immediately after an oil change. The clattering sounds terrible like there is no oil in the engine. The guys at the lube place say that a lot of the new Fords do this, but it does not seem right to me. I use a Motorcraft filter and Castrol Syntech 5-20. Any ideas what causes this or what I can do to prevent this.

 

make sure to fill the filter with oil before installation, this will avoid the knock at startup.

 

Thanks! The knock certainly does not sound like a good thing. Does it damage the engine?

 

The filter is in sideways, how do you fill it and put it back on without dumping it all over the place ?

 

Mine did that too when I changed my oil yester day, but only for about 30 seconds. I filled the oil filter about half way before I screwed it on, to prevent the dry start. But its purrs now. I dont think it hurt anything.

 

I've read on other boards that some of the 5.4 motors in the Lightnings do the same thing. Not had to change oil in the 04 yet, but when I change oil in the lightning I do like the others said, fill filter up. I also hold the gas pedal to the floor and try cranking it. The motor will not start but yet pumping oil back thru the system. Then let off of the gas pedal and start the motor. Not heard any knocks or clatter from the motor yet. So when I change oil in the 04 I will try it the same way.

 

My 99 150 would knock when i changed the oil so i asked a mechanic friend what gives, he is the one that told me about filling the filter but mine was also mounted sideways so i filled it 3/4 of the way and held the drain pan under it when i screwed it on. Some spilled but not alot. This cured the knock at startup. I didnt learn about this until about my 4th oil change. now the truck has 117,000 miles and still runs great so i wouldnt be concerned if i was you guys.