5reel

I recently purchased an 04 fx4 with a 5.4 (100,000mi)and the engine was very quiet when idling but after some driving and warming up I could hear what sounds like a tappet noise. I changed the oil thinking this might help some, but it's pretty much the same. I only hear it at an idle and it does go away somewhat at times. I understand it's an overhead cam 3 valve design, but don't know much more about these engines. My question, is there anything under the rocker cover that's adjustable and where can I find engine schematics. A local retailer tells me ther is no Hayes Danna book available to me. thanx

icantdrive55

I'd bet ya $5 that it's a cam phaser. Sounds EXACTLY like how I described the noise in my brand new '09 4.6-3v. Took it back to the dealer for service--they replaced the cam phaser and hydraulic control module. No knocking since...

5reel

Thank you. Do you know if the cam phasers come up as a Code.

icantdrive55

Not a clue. You'll have to check with a mechanic or the dealer to get your answer.

jeffro510

dumb question, but did you check the oil? maybe a lifter tap or sticky lifter?

ONELOWF

5reel

Oil is okay,pressure is fine. Tappet or lifter is what it sounds like, knowing nothing about the valve train on these engines I won't get into opening it up until the manual I ordered arrives. Will let you know how it turns out

Keeblerz28

Ships in 1-3 MONTHS??? Seriously, those books are available at any autoparts store

ONELOWF

Ha! I did not see the 1-3 months. I just googled 04' f150 shop manual and Amazon came up first.

5reel

Received manual from Auto-Repair-Manuals.com in 6 days. Looks like bigger job than I want to do right now.Going to try changing oil 1 more time, I mistakingly put 10w30 in it. The book calls for 5w20,possibly thats what was in it when I bought it. Just a hope more than anything I suppose but worth a try