So I have heard this grumbling light knocking that sounds almost like valve train noise since I bought my truck, and I just wonder what it is? I don't think its serious, at first I though it was valve train noise, now I think it needs a timing chain, but I also heard it tonght when I was under it coming from the clutch area... Idk what it could be, any ideas or common places for a light constant yet inconsistent beat knocking in 3.9's?

Thanks guys.

 

It could be anything. Since we can't hear it we can diagnose it. I would suggest taking to a shop that does free test drives and see what they think.

 

Yeah, I have a few friends that have shops, I suppose a ride down there is in order. Was just wondering if there is anything that is a common issue to look for.
Thanks.

 

matellac sounds tend to travel through drivetrains. the 3.9 has an issue with timing chains, but i also found the u-joints go bad pretty quick (until i added the extra leafs, go figure)
you have to be pretty certain where the sound is coming from before we can seriously help, the front of the engine and the tranny are a long way apart.

 

I know. I remember hearing a similar sounds from my friends 360 ram with an auto only on startup (its louder so maybe it was muffled when running)... I am was thinking timing chain because I knew they were common issues. Could the trans make that kind of noise yet function properly?

 

u could use a... tool i forget what its called... but its like what the docs use to hear ur heart but instead of a cup at the end it has a long rod... its what ur friend will use to narrow down where the noise is commin from.. itll give you a better idea where the noise is loudest is probally either bad or shakin loose... you never kno if a previous owner actually had a torq wrench and torq'd the bolts correctly, so id get it checked out soon b4 u end up on the side of the road wonderin...

 

Ok, so after some reading on allpar, I hear valvetrain noises are common in the 3.9? Which could easily be what I hear.
Also, at low rpm it makes some not so happy noises in 3rd, 4th, or 5th... and I've learned this is the nature of the motor being not so well balanced. Anyone know if this is true?

 

Mechanics Stethoscope. Incredibly handy and one can be had for relatively cheap from harbor freight. It's nothing fancy but it'll get the job done. I think the one i got from there was like 5 bux or something. Otherwise they make much fancier ones as well.

Whoops, sorry, it's $3.99 http://www.harborfreight.com/mechani...ope-41966.html