I have a 2000 Expy w/ a 5.4 engine. I'm hearing a whinning noise that is coming from the passenger side of the engine. My first thought was an alternator bearing, but not so. I used a stethescope on the valve cover and can hear the noise louder in the rear of the engine. The whine varies in speed some but is not affected by the fan or a/c being switched on or off. Also the noise continues for a split second when the engine is turned off and a rattle sound can be heard. The sound is definately something rotating. It almost sounds like a fan loose on its shaft that continues to spin after the shaft stops. Help !!! I'm supposed to take this thing on the road tomorrow but don't want to damage something or get standed.

 

Ok, after more searching I found the pcv valve was buzzing/ whining. I replaced it and the noise is gone. Go figure

 

Never heard of that one. lol