Technical Service Bulletin: 6.4L Powerstroke – Ticking/Tapping Noise
Description
Reference Number(s): 09-16-2, Date of Issue: August 24, 2009
| FORD: : | 2008-2010 F-Super Duty |
Superceded Bulletin(s): 08-19-5, Date of Issue: September 29, 2008
NOTE: This article supersedes TSB 08-19-5 to update the vehicle model years.
Details
ISSUE
Some 2008-2010 F-Super Duty 250-550 vehicles equipped with a 6.4L diesel engine may exhibit a random engine ticking / tapping noise that is most noticeable when engine coolant temperature is 185°F (85°C) or higher and from base idle to approximately 1500 RPM. Some customers may complain that this noise becomes more evident after 3000-5000 miles have accumulated on the vehicle or after an engine oil change.
ACTION
Refer to the Service Procedure for repair recommendations.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
The ticking / tapping noise is most noticeable at the rear of the driver’s side front wheel well. 6.4L Powerskoke diesel engines exhibit this normal audible condition (some engines will exhibit greater audible noise due to engine build variations). 6.4L Powerstroke diesel engines are manufactured to tight tolerances in order to meet strict durability and reliability standards.
This noise is caused by the relationship between engine block, crankshaft journals, bearing inserts and oil viscosity / film. This relationship allows a pulsation that resonates through the cylinder block and is heard as a metallic ticking noise. This condition is present on all diesel engines.
Technological improvements and overall noise reduction in today’s diesel engines make this issue seem new when in fact it was masked by other noises on previous engines. Other engine manufacturers report similar conditions in their diesel engines. Vehicle testing and engine teardown analysis have confirmed this condition will not effect reliability or long term durability of this engine. Dealers should not attempt to perform vehicle to vehicle noise comparisons. This may lead to incorrect conclusions and ineffective repairs.