Hi,I have a 03 ram qc 4.7.the truck has 90000 kilos,runs perfect.The problem is when I start it when its cold it clacks.It sounds like a diesel.It only does it for about 2 minutes,loud at first then slowly goes away.It is fine when it is warm.I have been to the dealer,they say its normal,aslong as it goes away after 3 minutes.Iput new exhaust manifold gaskets in and made no difference.I am running 0w30 sythetic oil and still does it.I have tried thicker oil and still does it.I have owned this truck for 3 years and has always done it.It never does itwhen its hot.Will a lifter change help?any help would be appreciated.

 

maybe doughnut gaskets? tried a higher octane fuel? 02 sensor leaning out the mix??

 

my 2003 4.7, 44,000 mi. does the same exact thing. im thinking its the intake manifold leaking but im not really sure. hopefully the vets will voice in and give us some imput and ideas.

 

2 members same problem....no ideas?

 

My 4.8L silverado had the notorious Piston Slap problem. SOunded like a bunch of marbles being vigorously shaken in a coffe can for the first 20seconds and then it quieted right down. It also had a slow start-up oil pump that contruibuted to cam lobe noises upon start-up as well. It did it at 42kim when i bought the truck and remained the same when i sold the truck 35kmi later.

 

Its a normal problem in these trucks.It scares me!Ive built 10 hp chevy big blocks and never heard this.any suggestions on oil brands or viscosity to help with this?Come on guys help me out!!!!!!!!!Thanks

 

My '02 4.7 has the exact same problem, dirtydog's marble comparison was pretty dead on. Mine never goes away 100% though, it gets a lot quieter when the pistons get hot and expand but its still noticeable. It was explained to me that the piston slap on this motor is caused by slightly undersized pistons and that an assembly lubricant like acdelco EOS could help slightly, but has anyone found a better solution? I rly don't mind pulling her apart, I'm sick of driving a truck that sounds like its on its last mile!

 

If you dont mind pulling it apart id set a weekend to do so. It could be as simple as sludge

 

My 04 does it too...Dodge dealer seems to think it is either a bad exhaust manifold or broken bolt. But you mentioned you already replaced the manifold gaskets right?

 

1. Exhaust manifold gaskets. You eliminated that.
2. Rockers or lifters.
3. Timing chain / guides
4. Piston slap.
Give her extra time to warm up and make sure the tick has disappeared before driving away. Or spend lots chasing down the noise. BTW dealer did 1 thru 3 on my 4.7. Engine still makes the same noise for 1 minute upon cold start.
Good Luck