Hey guys I recently found out I have a lifter tick that only occurs once the engine is warm. I tried using liqui moly lifter additive and it did nothing, I checked for loose spark plugs, an exhaust leak, and the tensioners and none of that seems to be the issue. Once I used a stethoscope I realized the sound is coming from the front of the passenger side valve cover. It's a 2011 Ford Ranger with only 115k miles on it. All I'm really wondering is have any of you guys done a lifter replacement job on the 4.0 sohc and if so how bad of a job is it? I've already replaced the valve cover gaskets, but I'm hoping I don't have to take the intake manifold off to fit the spring compressor tool. I only have a full day to fix this once the parts get in, so I'm curious about what to expect going into this and what to look out for, Thanks.

 

What side of the motor can you hear the ticking passenger or driver side?

 

I hear it from passenger side

 

I’m not a 4.0 motor person. I’ve never had one apart. I do know the camshaft though is on the back of the motor on the passenger side at least I’m pretty sure it is in that case. I don’t think it would be very easy to replace the part that’s making the noise. It’s not a lifter cause it’s an overhead cam. I suggest look at YouTube or somewhere. see if you can get some good info

 

I can’t find anything online and no it’s not a lifter, its a lash adjuster but it’s basically similar to a lifter. There are camshafts on both the driver and passenger side, but the passenger side is more prone to oil starvation which makes the lash adjusters a common failure.

 

Step-by-Step Lash Adjuster Replacement







1. Disconnect battery





Always remove the negative cable before working on the valvetrain.









2. Remove parts blocking the valve cover





This usually includes:

• Air intake tube
• Throttle body connections
• Coil pack or wires
• Any brackets over the valve cover

3. Remove the valve cover

• Remove valve cover bolts
• Lift the cover off and remove the gasket

Now you’ll see:

• Camshaft
• Roller rocker followers
• Lash adjusters

4. Rotate the engine so the cam lobe is pointing

up





Use a socket on the crankshaft bolt and rotate until the cam lobe for the valve you’re working on is not pressing on the rocker.

This relieves pressure on the follower.









5. Remove the roller rocker follower





There are two ways:



Method A (common):

• Use a valve spring compressor
• Push the valve spring down slightly
• Slide the rocker follower out

Method B (sometimes works):

• Carefully pry the follower off with a small pry bar if pressure is low.

6. Remove the lash adjuster





Once the rocker is off:

• The lash adjuster sits in a small bore in the head
• Pull it out with:
  • magnet
  • needle nose pliers

The factory manual says to keep adjusters in their original positions unless replacing them.









7. Prep the new lash adjuster





Before installing:

1. Soak it in clean engine oil
2. Pump it by hand to prime it with oil

This prevents startup noise.









8. Install the new lash adjuster

• Oil the adjuster
• Slide it into the bore
• Make sure it sits flat

9. Reinstall the roller rocker follower

• Compress the valve spring slightly
• Place the rocker between the cam and valve
• Ensure it sits on the adjuster and valve stem properly

Lubricate with clean engine oil before installing.









10. Reassemble





Reinstall:

• Valve cover (new gasket recommended)
• Ignition components
• Intake parts
• Battery cable

Start engine and let it idle a few minutes while oil fills the adjuster.
Here’s what I found doesn’t sound as hard as I thought. Good luck,