Valve noise on cold startup? Maybe?

[PowerWheels]

I am guessing that its the valves, but for a few mornings, when it is cold outside there is a kind of clicking noise just for an moment at startup. After 3 or 4 rapid clicks it stops, as if the valves might be sluggish when very cold.

Anyone else hear this, and is this what it is? Is it ok?

 

[CobraBob]

Does it happen consistently? Mine did that every so often, like maybe 3-4 times a year. I was never concerned because it wasn't a consistent occurance.

 

[PowerWheels]

Only when it's cold in the morning, like freezing. Noticed it 3 times in about the last 2 weeks.

 

[RGrossman]

I've noticed this as well. I noticed it when its been around the 0 mark in the morning when then car is frozen solid. I can't wait for summer. Sick of this crap!

 

[ShelbyGuy]

well how do YOU feel on cold mornings?

remember the top end of the engine is dry, and that oil in the crankcase needs some encouragement to get flowing.

freezing? in alabama?

 

[Top_Fuel]

You sure it's not just a mild case of cold piston slap? My 4.6 Crown Vic has a 10-15 second case of piston slap when I first start it in the morning...but only when it's left outside overnight when the temps are below freezing. When it's left in the garage, there's no noise. But I would describe my noise as more of a muffled knock, not really a click or tick.

 

[CobraNHYEE]

It happened to me couple times. It sounds like a lash adjuster bled down and took a second to pump up. I heard rapid clicks for a second then it disappeared. :shrug: It only happened after the car sat for more than 3 days.

 

[CobraBob]

This may sound silly, but I most noticed it (rough idle and a faint ticking) when there was an extreme temperature change, like from 50s - 90s changing quickly to 30s - 40s. And then it seemed like the computer adjusted to the temp change and the cold startup improved. I never did find out exactly what caused the occasional rough idle.