I have a 04 ram 1500 4x4 with a 4.7 that has 142,000 miles on it. I am noticing a ticking noise on start up that last about 3 or 4 mins then it goes away. I have read that it could be manifold bolts broke off that could be causing the noise. How can I tell if it is the timing chain with out taking it apart? Also, If it ends up being the timing chains do I have to pull the motor or is it something I can do with the motor left in the truck?

Thanks,

 

 

 

I doubt that its a timing chain. They are more of a rattle sound. What you describe sound more like an exhaust manifold bolt being broken. Is it more noisy on one side of the engine?

 

No it sounds about the same on both sides of the truck.