rdkev

Thanks Combat! I appreciate the info. At the dealer, the shop foreman and I did exactly what you said. Also, if it is that, I assume they will just replace the manifold under warranty? I will be using a Ford dealership in or around Dublin, OH which is pretty much Columbus. Anybody have any recommendations? [MENTION=137332]ComQuest[/MENTION]

Combat vet

Yes. If it is a manifold leak they would replace the manifold under the factory warranty. Most manifolds today are a machine fit to the cylinder head, i.e. No exhaust manifold gasket. Someone else in this thread mentioned that he had heard about warping exhaust manifolds on EB motors. He may be right. IF that is all that it is, then rest easy and let Ford make it like new. Many times things like this can be a blessing in disguise - never know.

rdkev

Cool. Thank you again. I will wait for an update and pass this info along to the shop foreman. Is there any real way to test for a leak?

HCFX2013

Can't seem to find the threads that had guys with faulty manifolds.

I have reason to believe mine has a leak as well, since I have no idea what that whistling noise was on the highway and mine has a faint "tap-tap-tap" at idle as well.

Combat vet

One way to test for a leak is perform a simple visual inspection using a telescoping mirror and flashlight, and of course, your ears. For sound I use an automotive stethoscope - works great. On the visual inspection, the tech would look for darkened exhaust that mark the contact areas of where the manifold fits to the exhaust ports. Sometimes it is as simple as loose bolts as there is a lot of expansion and contraction going on with the manifold and hardware. Another quick way to perform the sound inspection is to use a short length of auto heater hose or a wooden dowel. Place the hose or dowel next to your ear and probe around the manifold. An experienced tech will be able to do all of this in short order.

rdkev

Ya i hear absolutely no difference when I am driving... only at idle. 1870 mile test will be interesting lol.

lariut

I have used two methods for checking for exhaust leaks. With the engine off, I made a fitting with one end in the tailpipe and the other end hooked to my air compressor. I run air through the exhaust and inspect everything listening closely for air leaks.

You can use this method on the intake side to check for boost leaks as well.

Another method I have used before I had an air compressor is with the engine running I sprayed soapy water on the connecting parts of the exhaust. If there is a leak it will bubble like crazy. If not the soapy water will just burn off.

Disclaimer: I am not a mechanic but these methods have helped me track down exhaust leaks on past vehicles. No leaks on my truck yet!

rdkev

thanks Lariut

rdkev

Just got a call back from the guy helping me out. Talked to Ford engineering and apparently it is a "normal characteristic of the engine" Said it's the vacuum pump and to not worry about it... lol. Ok, whatever you say fellas.

prime81

I've heard the same ticking noise on multiple vehicles, likely just injectors. As for the tapping noise could be type of oil used, or just normal operation noises. If the vehicle is operating just fine, why worry about it. It's also under warranty and if something is tapping or knocking inside the engine it will take care of itself fairly quickly.