As we all know, we are not alone with piston slap. This is a chevy posting that sounds like it came form here. GMC has the same attitude as FMC about this problem. No, I'm not a chevy fan, just checking out the rest of the world.

Pete

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Engine Knock on Cold Start
1999-2002 Chevrolet and GMC C/K Pickup and Utility Models
2002 Cadillac Escalade (2WD)
with 4.8L, 5.3L or 6.0L Engine (VINs V, T, Z, U -- RPOs LR4, LM7, L59, LQ4)

This bulletin is being revised to add an additional engine to the models section.

Some of the above vehicles may exhibit an engine knock noise that begins in the first 19,000-24,000 km (12,000-15,000 mi) of use. The knock noise is most often noticed during initial start-up and typically disappears within the first 5-30 seconds (may last longer in extreme cold temperatures). The noise is usually more noticeable on the initial start-up when the temperature is below 10°C (50°F) and may be more pronounced on the first cold start following a long trip.

This noise may be caused by an interaction between carbon that has formed on the piston, the piston motion and the cylinder wall. GM Powertrain Engineering, and an analysis of engines with this condition, has confirmed that the noise is not detrimental to the performance, reliability or durability of the engine. THIS NOISE DOES NOT HAVE ANY EFFECT ON THE LONGEVITY OF ANY OF THE ENGINE COMPONENTS.


Important
At this time, attempts to repair this condition by replacing the engine assembly or pistons are not recommended.


Please share the information found in this bulletin with customers who inquire about this condition. In the event they have additional questions or concerns, please advise your Area Service Manager.

 

Frustration meter pegged. Can you believe it. 100+ years and the incompetent staff of Ford and GM are screwing up something that shouldn't even be close to being a problem. Then when their stupidity backfires from ****** off customers complaining, they tuck tail and put up a wall of b.s. Does it take a rocket scientist to lengthen piston skirts?

 

If I remember correctly, the new 2004 5.4L has longer piston skirts for "quieter operation" according to Ford literature. Sounds like they did figure it out, just not going to fix it in existing trucks.

With all the fancy new head controls (variable valve timing, etc) I think I will stick with the current 5.4L and face listening to some knocking in a few thousand miles. That new 5.4L is going to be the subject of many recalls in my opinion. Give them a few years to work out the bugs and then buy one.

Charles

 

Yeah, it only them 7 years. I think you're right on the 2004. I figure if they can't get the guts of an engine right, why add more parts and complexity to the valvetrain? Oh well. That's progress.