Ford F150 Engine Knocking - Is She Done For?

Question

I have a 2000 Ford F150 4.2L V6 with 258,000 miles on the odometer. Overall, the truck runs absolutely flawlessly - no loss in power, normal operating temperature, normal RPM, etc. Though recently, when I go to start her up in the morning, a rather loud knocking noise seems to come from inside the engine (imagine 2 pieces of metal slapping against each other)

After driving for roughly 60 seconds, the noise completely disappears. And it seems the only time I hear it is after letting it sit for more than 30 minutes or so. My question is simply what could be causing this noise? I was hoping to squeeze 300,000 miles out of her but I don't know how long she's going to last now. Like I said, it still drives wonderfully and everything. 

Something to note also is that I believe I have a small, minor leak somewhere in the coolant system. Small traces of coolant will appear in the oil as well. (The slight leaking of the coolant has occurred for about 2 1/2 years now)

Anyway, I hope this was explained sufficiently enough. Just looking for some simple feedback/advice. Thanks in advance!!

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

I know the 97-98 models were bad on timing cover gaskets that would hydrolock the engine if left untreated...and the 4.2L is also bad on intake manifold gaskets.  Had to do mine last Good Friday '10 weekend with about 150k on the ticker.  

You done yours at all?  Ever?  Mine only got as far as giving me P0171/P0174 and a couple of P11XX codes for that leak being so bad... 

Of course, you could be hearing a worn timing chain tensioner.  Those can get pretty convincing.

CarHelpTips · Answer

Well first, I congratulate you for having the most details and being very concise with those details. 

Second, I believe it is related to the starter motor. Because you said it goes away after a short amount of time, 60 seconds, then it leads me to believe that the gears in the starter motor are not properly aligning or are not disengaging correctly, causing the knocking you hear.

I would be happy to help you more if you emailed me.

pinemiser · Answer

Its done, I had one did the exact same thing. It was a rod bearing that spun. Anti freeze in your oil will kill the bearings. My truck was a 1997 F150

? · Answer

It's getting real close to being done. That engine was not known for super longevity, I"m surprised it's gone that far.


zxc090

dropdeadplague · Answer

let yout car warm up do you have any engibe lights on?

Ford F150 Engine Knocking - Is She Done For?

5 Answers