I have a 2000 Durango 2WD 5.9L with 95k miles. I wanted to know if others that have or had the truck experienced the same issues. When accelerating, the valves seem to make a 'clattering' sound. Is this normal? Also, I just checked my oil as I have a small leak under the dist. Noticed that at the end of my dipstick that it looked like the oil got so hot that it burnt on to the stick. The oil also smelt a bit burnt. I have changed the oil between 3k and 5k always and just had it done 500 miles ago. I have kept the truck tuned up. What caused this? Is this an issue?

Thanks

 

The noise you are hearing may just be valve ping.
Try, and I know this may hurt, using a higher octane fuel and run a bottle of fuel system cleaner through it.
I buy the stuff made for "larger vehicles"
Dunno about the oil.
Rule of thumb: If it isn't dirty, it isn't working.
Next oil change, get yourself some Lucas oil stabilizer. I run Valvoline 10w-40 year round and the oil stabilizer every other oil change.It will gain you some oil pressure back, especially for a higher mileage engine.
I also keep the oil level @ 1/4 inch above full.
No more than 3000 miles on the oil and unless you watch them at any lube stops, do it yourself.