Ticking noise under a load 5.0 302

[SMASHEK]

I have a 1998 X with a 5.0 302. I hear a ticking noise when the engine is under a load at 1800 to 2000 rpm. Without a load (in park) you can't hear the noise so it is very hard to detect where it is coming from under the hood. It sounds a little differnent than a lifter ticking so I think it is not a lifter. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[IAmTodd]

Could possibly be pinging. Does it sound like a marble in a tin can? Is it a steady tick? Could also be the exhaust manifolds leaking. Thats a common problem.

 

[JTX]

More then likely its the exhaust manifold leaking.

 

[james t]

More than likely the passenger side exhaust manifold leaking. It could also be the EGR tube on the passenger side exhaust manifold.

 

[SMASHEK]

Is there a common area to check for a leak on the manifold itself? Any reason I hear it only under a load?

 

[james t]

Usually it leaks at the flange to head area.

 

[boominXplorer]

check the bolts too. mine leaked from there. 3 were only finger tight

 

[SMASHEK]

I'll check it out

Thanks for the advice, I will check it out this Saturday and let you know what I discover.

 

[SMASHEK]

Thanks for the suggestions and ideas. As it turned out, the EGR tube from the exhaust manifold to the EGR valve had a slight visible crack. After I removed it I found a much bigger crack on the back side. No more TICK TICK, love it!