i think my durango has a rod knock. its a 2001 R/T. you can hear it on first startup for a second then it goes away. starts again if you get on the gas hard. sounds like someone tapping a hammer inside the engine. what are the chances this is the plenum pan leak/blowout and not a rod? i dont have a whole lot of experience with either

 

I wouldn't think the plenum gasket is causing the issue. First thing I'd do is change the oil (use good oil) and see if that makes a difference.

A rod knock will be a deeper sound compared to something like valves that are a higher pitched sound.

If it is actually a rod knock though it's probably too late and you should consider a rebuild before things get worse.

 

got worse today. also started misfiring. havent had a chance to check it out yet, hopefully tomorrow. unfortunately its probably going up for sale because i dont have the money to repair it and i need reliable transportation.