Rods out of alignment?

[jenetik]

I currently am experiencing what my dad thinks is a rod or something out of alignment and sounds like a clicking noise as RPMs increase. It almost sounds like a bad exhaust manifold from where the noise is coming from, but my dad seemed to think the noise is coming from under the valve covers. Is there a proper technique to fix this problem? I can post pictures and an mp3 of the noise if you think it will help determining the problem. I also would appreciate a picture or link to the valve cover/manifold or whatever may be the problem for a 2000 Ford Explorer V8 w/302 motor. Thanks for the help.

 

[Fredness]

Welcome to Explorer Forum...

Do a search on leaking exhaust manifolds. It's my understanding the the V-8's in the Ex/Monty's have horible, leak prone exhaust manifolds (I've seen the scary pictures!) that could do just what you are describing. Repairs don't seen to last, so replacement or upgrade (Torque Monster Headers and the like) are the only real solution.

Here's a great link that shows what I'm talking about:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=153944&highlight=leaking+exhaust+manifold

 

[jenetik]

Thanks for the quick reply. I read that people are clogging the exhaust pipe with rags to make the noise louder. Will clogging the exhaust system make a rod/alignment problem louder also? or will that stay the same. It seems like I have an exhaust manifold problem. I also have under 8yr/80,000 for the warranty, or so I thought.. Is this a hard piece of gear to change out for a newbie? I hate to take my car to a mechanic or ford dealer. thanks

 

[Turdle]

Listen under hood, passenger side, while someone revs engine.

Exhaust leaks are pretty common---

A seafoam treatment will cuase a lot of smoke, you may see it coming from the leaks.
To see it effectively, wait for engine to cool , and remove the heat shields from the manifolds by cutting the small metal retaining straps with some wire cutters.

Bet you see a crack!!!

 

[jenetik]

Thanks so much

Well hot damn!! Upon inspection of the manifold, I noticed a loose nut and lock washer that was not even tight and could be turned by hand in either way. I cranked it down with a socket to the manifold and the problem has went away. I believe this was causing a leaky exhaust and the car no longer makes the clicking noise like it used to. My only other question is... will this happen again? How can I ensure the bolt and lock washer do not work themselves loose again? Should I locktite the nut to the bolt? Thanks again for all your help, you guys are pros!

 

[Turdle]

Yes-loctite the bolt--
BTW, I am no pro--I have just been there!

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I was about to say, the 2000 had cast manifolds that were not as prone to crack.

Don't use red locktite, blue will be fine. With red, you'll never get it out if you ever want to.