I have an 2002 5.9L SLT quad cab with a new transmission around 110k miles, almost 120k now Before the transmission went out there has been an engine knocking noise that is heard when accelerating, when I lift my foot of the pedal, and while idling after driving for a bit. It has been getting louder and louder. I'm assuming it's a lifter or piston issue, but my mechanic does not handle engine problems and I would rather not spend a bunch of money diagnosing at a shop it unless I have too.
Does anyone have an idea on how I could go about finding what specifically is causing this knocking without taking it in?
If anyone needs anymore info feel free to ask.

 

You can take it apart yourself or run it until it grenades and then find out

 

Ay, Thanks for the useless reply.

 

The truth is, there is no accurate way of diagnosis unless you break it down and inspect it. Otherwise it's like try to diagnose cancer or any other internal medical problem by guessing

 

He can pull the pan and give each piston a good wiggle and check for any that have too much free play. Or send the oil off for analysis. That'll tell you if bearing material is entering the oil. Or use a stethoscope to see if its a top or bottom end issue and go from there.

 

it is possible to clue in. by sound.. but it takes years to learn ...

send oil out for testing.. about 25 dollars... last time I did it.
pull the oil pan. main and rod bearing can be checked.
pull valve covers... check rockers / lifters.
pull timing cover.. check gears/chain. end play.
also install gage for oil pressure... low pressure is oil pump or main bearing problem.

 

Yeah but at the end of the day what is the end result?

Rebuild. So it really doesn't matter what or where the issue is because the end result is a rebuild

 

You'll rebuild an entire engine if it is just a timing gear issue? Or what if it is only the top end?

Does the noise change whether the engine is cold or warmed up? If it is piston slap on one piston, you may have low compression on it too, check compression and it might help pinpoint which cylinder has issues.

 

A tap from a lifter or valve is a different sound than a knock from a bad piston/crank bearing and at the end of the day, the only way to know s to take it apart and inspect

 

Seriously your premise about not taking it to a "good shop" note here I say good, for the cost of diagnosis........ is wrong!!
A good shop and mech, will save you $'s.
His experience and knowledge will pin point exactly where your issue is. Saving time and money.
Al.