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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Superceded Bulletin(s): 08-19-5, Date of Issue:  September 29, 2008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.

NOTE: DO NOT ATTEMPT REPAIRS FOR THIS NORMAL NOISE CONDITION. REPLACING THE ENGINE OR INTERNAL COMPONENTS WILL NOT REDUCE OR ELIMINATE THE TICKING/TAPPING NOISE. PLEASE PROVIDE THIS BULLETIN TO CUSTOMERS THAT INQUIRE ABOUT THIS CONDITION.

 

The contents of HotShotsSecret.com, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the Diagnose Your Diesel section are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your mechanic or other qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding your vehicle’s condition.

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