Hey all,I've been hanging out on the Powerstroke section for quite a while now but I think this is my first post on the Expy section. The other day i noticed when i fired my 1999 Expy (5.4) up it sounded fine at idle (except for the regular sound of cold piston slap). but when i backed out of the drive way, put it in drive and took off i heard a loud rattling sound. The sound continued for a few seconds and then went away (i assume as the motor built oil pressure and temp). I drove it around the block tapping the gas trying to see what the noise did with different RPM but the noise was gone. i went back home and let the car sit for an hour or so. This time I went out, popped the hood and fired the car and the same thing happened... it was quiet at idle, but pulling on the throttle cable, a rattle sound on the passenger side bank appeared at about 1500 RPM and higher. it sounds like rocker arm noise. eventually the noise went away as oil pressure and temp built. So its looking like I have some issue with the valvetrain on the passenger side. Do these 5.4' motors have known issues with rocker arm/valvetrain???anybody else that has experienced this? I dont know much about the rockers on the 5.4's but i assume its a shaft system and its also a PITA to R&R. I'm mechanically lnclined enough to do the work but finding the time is rare these days. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks Rick

 

I recently replaced the head gaskets on my 98. I took the heads in to have them inspected and the valves done. The shop ended up replacing all the valve lash adjusters because a few of them were sticking. Once I put it all back together and fired it up, there wasn't any more of the death rattle you describe. Also make sure you're using a high quality oil filter.

 

I should note that I did a search on this forum for the subject and I've already ruled out the PCV making the noise.

after messing with it this morning, the motor seems to make the noise even with temperature in it. After driving it around for a while and then letting it sit for 15-20 min, it will make the noise again when i take off.
After searching some more, I figured valve lash adjusters. is there anything that has been tried (additive wise) that might unstick the adjusters?I just got done having surgery on a shattered clavicle so although i'm mechanically inclined enough to perform the work myself, my shoulder wont be down for the work for about 3-4 more weeks.

 

Try the Seafoam treatment a couple of times. That may buy you a few weeks.

 

Thanks, I think i will try that.

 

How old is your oil filter and is it a motorcraft filter?