I've developed a loud cliking noise from the driver's side of my engine. It's not in the accessories (a/c or P/S pump) as I took off the serpentine belt and it's still present. Used my mechanic's stethoscope on the valve cover and it doesn't seem to be internal to the cam and lifter area. Doesn't sound like a rod knocking or main bearing thump, either-no shuddering.

I did note while the serpentine belt was off that I have a fair amount of play in the P/S pump shaft. It can be moved about 1/2" in either direction before it seems to engage. Normal?

I'm gonna get under and look around with a flashlight to see if amything's loose or contacting the rotating assembly today. Meanwhile, any thoughts? This is definitely a rotating problem, speeds up and slows down with RPM.

 

Loose Spark Plug wire?

Doubt a loose CMP(cam position) sensor would "click" but.......might be worth a look.
Diagrams here: Camshaft position sensor location - Ford Ranger Forum

Yes, there would be some play between pump strokes on PS pump