cam chain noise

[lacton]

Our 97, 4.0L, SOHC has a loud rattling noise on start up for about 2-3 seconds, then goes away and sounds fine after that. Is there a logical order of replacing parts (i.e. - tensioners first, front guides, rear guides, etc.) until I get the noise problem solved?

Step 1 is to replace a rusty lower oil pan....bought a good used one today on ebay for $17. If I don't find any plastic pieces in the pan, what should I do next? I don't believe any parts have ever been replaced in this area.

I don't want to have to pull the engine but will if I get to the rear guides and the noise is still there.

 

[eagles350]

Go for the tensioners first. They have springs in them that keeps tension till the oil pressure builds. you can get to the back one by removing the r/s fenderwell.

 

[janolsson]

If its a start up rattle only the oil filled tensioners are the first point of call. At the same time you do the front tensioner you can also add a restrictor pencil to the oilway to prevent the oil draining out of the tensioner and renew your intake gaskets as the upper intake has to come off to gain access.
Do a search for 00m12 kit. This includes the restrictor valve and the front tensioner along with upper and lower intake gaskets. If you go down this route, do the lower gaskets as they are prone to hardening and cracking so it is a good preventative measure while you are in there.
OOm12 kit about $50 Part No YL2Z-9E473-AA

rear tensioner about $30 Part no XU3Z6K254BA / 7U3Z-6K254-A (7U3Z6K254A)

 

[lacton]

I'm hoping that's all it is. About 5-6 years ago we had the cold idle problems (leaky manifold orings) and had an 00m12 kit installed and I don't know what shape the front tersioner is in by now....but I'll replace both of them and keep my fingers crossed. I dunno, though....the odometer is almost at 200K and I'm starting to think an engine pull and a complete chain kit is a reality.

First, though.....replacing the rusty lower pan when it arrives. What I find inside will spell it out.