noise in engine

[mic13]

hello all, i hope someone can help me i have a 98 ex sohc 4.0, i have a light ticking or rattling noise in the engine, only when the engine is at normal operating temp.at 2,400 rpm no noise at all when engine is cold at 2,400 rpm.
new ford plugs,wires,fuel filter,air filter. the truck runs perfectly no codes
idles nice, what could it be. thanks in advance for your help..

 

[my98nnj]

Most likely timing chain components failing.

Very common problem with the SOHC engine.

There are quite a few threads regarding this topic.

 

[2000StreetRod]

Timing chain rattle resolution process - SOHC V6

Could be a failed primary chain tensioner but there are other possibilities: Timing chain rattle resolution process - SOHC V6

 

[mic13]

thanks

thanks for the fast reply, i was hoping it was not the tensioner.strange though
no noise for the first 15 min of driving.so i took off the oil pan to see if there is any plastic pieces,thankfully none,nice and clean in there too(synthetic oil)
thanks again..