runningonfords
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- September 22, 2018
- Messages
- 160
- Reaction score
- 30
- City, State
- Detroit, Michigan
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 2014 Explorer XLT RRM
The other day I noticed a ticking sound that was changing with engine speed and really apparent when accelerating while driving with the windows up. Further examining at home seems to indicate the sound coming from the front (radiator) side of the engine. It sounds like I'm hearing the firing of the engine, not toooo loud though, goes faster when the engine goes faster. Does not always make the sound at idle, but when you goose the accel you can hear it always. TICK TICK TICK TICK TICK. It seems to make the sound at idling when engine is cold. Nearest Dealer was "very busy" and after holding my car for days without a diagnose and estimate I said forget it and brought it home. I am pretty sure this is exhaust manifold/converter or gasket failure as the first technician I talked to had indicated. The only ODD thing about this problem is that I can't really smell any exhaust gases in the engine compartment, either above or below the vehicle. That makes me think I am diagnosing this wrong?!? Any reason why I wouldn't smell exhaust from an exhaust leak? Also, has anyone replaced the manifold/converter on the front (radiator) side of the engine? Are there other major parts that need to be moved/removed to complete manifold replacement if the manifold IS indeed cracked or warped? My only other inclination is to get a cheap stethoscope and try harder to find the noise, good idea? Also, if I pull the manifold off, how can I tell if the mating surface is warped? Thanks to all who respond