Clunk sound immediately after starting

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Svgess

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Jul 29, 2022
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Location
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Hello folks. I just purchased a 2004 Sport Trac XTS with 116k miles. The truck starts up just fine, but every 3-5 starts there is a short clunking sound, similar (not the same) to what you would hear if you tried to turn the key after it was started. I assume it is the starter not disengaging immediately but wanted to search the web for confirmation before changing out the starter.

Thanks in advance.
Stephen
 
Could be a lot of things.... Try to get a video, Could be timing chains, Exhaust, Starter, Trans, Front pulley.
 
Svgess said:
Hello folks. I just purchased a 2004 Sport Trac XTS with 116k miles. The truck starts up just fine, but every 3-5 starts there is a short clunking sound, similar (not the same) to what you would hear if you tried to turn the key after it was started. I assume it is the starter not disengaging immediately but wanted to search the web for confirmation before changing out the starter.

Thanks in advance.
Stephen
Click to expand...
I'm assuming it happens before you put it in gear?
My '04 has been doing the same thing for years, 178k miles now. Doesn't seem to be any pattern to it but no ill effects either.
 
Is it the notorious chain slap? Searching for 'timing chain tensioners' would help you find how people describe that sound. Very common and serious for 4.0 SOHC in these things. Gotta remove the engine if the rear timing chain fails.
I just changed both mine out and it took about 4 hours.
Might as well get a metal thermostat housing while you are at it.
 
Exhaust makes a pop too in the older trucks.
 

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