4.0sohc noise

[dillinger]

I have a 1998 explorer 4.0 sohc 2wd 135000mi, sometimes on a cold start up there is a tapping noise from the drivers side head, I have removed the oil cap and started the engine cold and you can tell its from the valve train. Sometimes it will also do it when the engine is warm, it don't last but a few seconds. Other than this the truck runs fine. Anybody got an idea what i could be, my first thought was a rocker arm or lash adjuster, but I am not that familiar with these engines. Thanks for any input.

[TigerDan]

Anytime I see thread about the SOHC and valvetrain noise, I automatically figure on the timing chain cassette. It's problematical on these engines. Here's a little info on that:

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/31...tle-noise.html

But from what you describe, it may be as simple as a sticking hydraulic lash adjuster. You might want to run some Seafoam or equivalent through it and change the oil for a temporary fix.