My 2000 f 150 with 5. 4L makes a tapping/clicking noise most noticeable at idle. Does it cold or warm although it seems a little quieter when warmed up. My local mechanic told me its the rift pins in motor, said it's common. Anyone know if this affects longterm reliability or resale value? I run 5w20 full synthetic oil.

 

First off, there is no such thing as a "rift" pin. Maybe he said wrist pins? Although not impossible, I doubt that's your problem. I recommend checking all spark plugs for proper torque (28 ft lbs) Also, inspect your exhaust manifolds for leaks.

 

X2 ^^^.

 

This is a problem we discussed in another thread. Ford 5.4 had some cylinders with excessive clearance from the factory. Some had up to 005 clearance and when cold would make a noise the OP may be describing. This is not uncommon, and can be quite loud in really cold weather.

Now does this make the engine less efficient? No. It is just a bit annoying, but does not seem to bother this engine. A cracked piston will also give this sound. Personally, I'd just drive it, as long as it isn't the timing chain guides. I doubt it is a wrist pin. I'd go more for the cylinder having excessive clearance, causing the piston to slap a bit or the guides being worn out, if it is an internal noise.

Like JBrew and ScreamingE said. The exhaust manifolds do leak and make noise in the modular's. This can be really annoying, but is fairly easy to diagnois. Internal engine noises, not quite so easy.

 

Thanks for the input. I replaced the manifolds with shorty headers last may. Spark plugs were changed 5k miles ago. It made the noise before and after both those were replaced. The clearence suggestion makes sense.