I have an e99 F350 with about 180K miles on it.

some mornings (cold mornings) the engine sounds like a lifter is collapsed.

Some mornings (warm) it doesn't. It sounds just fine.

Is this a normal sound for this engine?

If I have to change the lifters can I do it by just pulling out the old lifters and sliding in new ones? I mean without having to putll the heads or anything like that?

I really like this truck and plan to keep it for many more years.

 

I've never read about bad lifters being a common issue on these 7.3s. If it clears up when warm I'd guess you either have a bad glow plug or a tired injector. Ohm out the GPs (look up the 50 cent mod for directions) and replace the bad one. Autolites have a bad rep.

If the GPs ohm out ok determine which side the sound comes from. Use a mechanics stethescope (or a long screwdriver or socket extension placed on the bone behind your ear) and touch it down to find the loudest spot. Keep it well clear of the belt and fan, obviously. Take off the valve cover and watch to see which injector is not spurting oil like the others when cold. That's the lazy one and it's just worn out. Below is a good read on injectors.

I might be way off base. Any other symptoms you can give us?

 

Unfortunately the heads have to be pulled, the opening isn't large enough to pull the retainer plate out, or get to the bolt, that connects the pairs. Here is a pic with the heads off.

 

maybe its the #8 injector, making the noise?

 

I recently replaced all of my injectors with Swamps rebuilt units.

Being that this noise come and goes in relation to oil temperature I think I will live with it and try to keep my truck plugged in any time it is cool outside.

Thanks to all that took the time to answer

 

I was thinking of putting new lifters in mine before buttoning it up as well, just in case. Interested to see what you find out. I found these on Riffraff's site.

Riffraff Diesel: Motorcraft Intake/Exhaust Valve Lifter

 

If I have to pull the heads we are into a whole new ball game. I would have the heads o/h then but don't think I am ready for this now.