Engine ticking noise - AUSJEEPOFFROAD.COM Jeep News Australia and New Zealand

Tersy · #1 28-02-2019

Hey guys,

I just bought a 2005 wrangler with 150k kms, manual. I have never owned a jeep before but it is making this strange ticking noise that does not sound right. Almost sounds like an electrical tick. Or a desiel engine. Does not sound like engine knock.

It sounds like it was coming from the grearbox and not the engine, however when i put the clutch in it still makes the ticking so has to be engine related.

It also seems to be loudest around 1500 to 2000 rpm. It kinda sounds like it increases in frequency as rpm goes up however it could just be getting louder.

Car has not been serviced in a while so im giving it a full service, but apart from the noise it drives great.

bonza · #2 01-03-2019

the AMC straight 6 are well known for making a ticking noise, mostly at idle, but without hearing it, it's hard to say what you hear is normal or not. could also be a lifter worn out

with proper maintenance they will do over 400,000 kilometers. if its due for a service use 10w40 oil rather than 10w30. a slighty thicker oil may quieten it down a little

do a google and you will probably find plenty of you tube clips about it

JMRR1 · #3 01-03-2019

Check your serpentine belt for any damage.

destron · #4 01-03-2019

Normally it is the lifters. If not, check the exhaust manifold for leaks or cracks.

Jonny Jeep · #5 02-03-2019

Worst case the ticking is slight piston slap that will eventually lead to a broken piston skirt.

My engine that had been ticking for a long time suddenly started knocking loudly a few weeks ago. It was down to a broken piston skirt at just shy of 192k miles/300k KM. I've changed oil every 5k Miles/8K KM for many years. Each piston has six small oil holes for the oil ring and all but two were closed up, so they won't have been getting anything like the amount of oil that they should have.

It now has new pistons, cam, lifters, pushrods, and rockers with all valves ground and lapped. A few small cracks i found in the exhaust manifold were drilled at the ends and I decided to braze them instead of welding. Hard work, but very satisfying now it's done.