Ok fellas...last week I was leaving my office and tried to fire up my truck. Cranked slow and then stopped cranking...all IP lights were dimmed like there was a big draw on the battery. I released the key. I ensured I had the clutch pressed in and tried once more. Same thing. This time I held the key and eventually she started. Drove home (about 15 minutes) and all is well. Wife went outta town so drove her car everyday. Went out this morning (after leaving the truck sitting for five days). Cranked right up! Leaving the office today, did that same starting thing again. THEN it happened! This loud tapping sound. Tapping sound was definitely rhythmic with engine speed and I accelerate it gets faster. I made it hope and parked it.

All gages are fine. All fluid levels are fine. No noticeable coolant in oil. Coolant level a bit low but it always is. No additonal white smoke from exhaust. By the way the coolant leak is external...have a little puddle under teh passenger side of the truck near the wheel on cold nights only. Vehicle is a 97 with the dreaded 4.2.

So any suggestions...I'm hoping it's someting that I'm able to fix.

 

Take a look at http://www.leakingfords.com/index.html

 

YEP been there....I figured out that I'm dead in the water. Does anyone know if I can replace my 4.2 with a 4.6 without replace EVERY thing.

 

Nope, you have to replace everything
I'm sure not the bearer of very good news today am I?
lol
I wonder if you could find a good used 4.2 out of a newer truck and install that? A good rebuilt engine would have all the latest gaskets etc and should be good too.

 

Dang it Dave...can't you just tell a lie or something!? Thanks dude. Guess I'll begin the search for another 4.2