Engine making ticking sound

FORD CROWN VICTORIA
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TAKKET2
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I just had my 2000 Ford Crown Vic in for replacement of all the spark plugs, 2 cracked cylinder heads replaced, and flush of transmission fluids. Now the engine is making this clicking sound. I can only hear it if I stand outside the car. It is definitely related to the RPM of the engine because while stopped I hear it clicking, and when I put the car in neutral and step on the gas I can hear the frequency of the clicking increase as the RPM does, and slow down as the RPM decreases. Could this be some kind of belt problem or related to all the repair work I just had done? I lifted the hood and the sound appears to be coming right from the top of the engine but I can't exactly localize it because of all the other noises coming from under the hood. The frequency of this clicking noise is about 3 or 4 clicks per second at idol speeds. I think I have caught a few quick whiffs of a burnt rubber smell too.

There is also a noise I get at about 40 or 45MPH inside the car. It is at its worst right after getting off the highway (at 70MPH) and driving on the surface streets around 40 to 50. Its coming, it almost sounds like, from just under the top of the dashboard on the far left (drivers side) of the car, but I'm pretty sure its not from the dashboard but some sound I'm hearing from under the hood. I haven't been able to isolate the sound since it only occurs at speeds over 40 so I don't hear it when I park the car and lift the hood, but I'm pretty sure this sound must be coming from something in the upper right hand corner of the engine compartment (upper right hand corner as you are standing in front of the car, facing it, and looking under the hood, so this is near the drivers side). The sound is hard to describe but its like a rattle or crackling sound and has no specific pattern and no discernable effect on the drivability of the car.

Can anyone advise me on this problems? Thanks!
Jun 19, 2006 at 11:03 AM
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CHASON
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Based on the description of the clicking sound and the burnt rubber smell, it's possible that the noise could be related to the recent repair work on your 2000 Ford Crown Victoria. Here are a few possibilities to consider:

Valve Train Noise: The clicking sound you're hearing could be related to the valve train, especially if the cylinder heads were replaced. It's possible that there is an issue with the valve lash or another component in the valve train.

Belt or Pulley Issue: A worn or misaligned belt, or a faulty pulley, could create a clicking noise. Check the condition of the drive belt(s) and the tensioner pulley to ensure they are in good condition.

Exhaust Leak: An exhaust leak can sometimes create a ticking or clicking sound, especially if there was work done on the exhaust system during the cylinder head replacement.

Regarding the noise you're hearing at 40-45 MPH, it's more challenging to diagnose without being able to hear it firsthand. However, some possibilities to investigate include:

Suspension Components: Check for any loose or worn suspension components, such as sway bar links, control arm bushings, or ball joints.

Wheel Bearings: Worn or damaged wheel bearings can sometimes produce noises at certain speeds.
Jun 19, 2006 at 11:59 AM