Hello I have a 99 XLT 4.0L SOHC that has started to make a tapping/chain type noise, mainly from cold, but you can hear it once the engine is warm as well. This doesn't always happen though, sometimes it is as quiet as a mouse. The local dealer doesn't know what the problem is and is going to have to investigate $$$$. If it was an old banger I'd say it was the tappets, because thats the type of noise. But sometimes it gets louder and sounds like a chain type noise. Has anyone else experienced this and does anyone know what needs to be done? Any advise would be appriciated so that I can go armed next time I see the Ford mechanics! Thanks in advance. John

Try this......go to this website and do a quick search with the NHTSA item number below. http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/Index.cfm Try ordering this Technical Service Bulletin and do searches for others at this website It says this............. Make: FORD TRUCK Model: EXPLORER Year: 1999 Service Bulletin Number: 14560 Bulletin Sequence Number: 179 Date of Bulletin: 01/01 NHTSA Item Number: SB617944 Component: ENGINE:TIMING GEAR AND CHAIN Summary: VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE START UP TIMING CHAIN NOISE. *JB Good Luck!!