I have a 2001 Dodge Ram van 1500 3.9 L engine I am having a knock issue sometimes it sounds like the lifter other times it sounds like it could be a rod I am trying to drop the pan I have all the bolts out and the starter removed and the two support brackets on either side removed but I cannot get the clearance to remove the pan itself any help would be appreciated thanks
also, I have used 710 oil to thicken it up and that did not fix it so then I tried Marvels Mystery Oil and I still have that ticking or knocking sound fresh oil fresh filter I am at a loss

 

You have to raise the engine about 4 inches or so. Removing the throttle body off the top of the intake should give you enough room to raise the engine. The hang-up is the oil pump and pickup tube inside the oil pan.