DRIVERS ASK, TOM ANSWERS: FLUID

PROBLEMS SOLVED

Dear    Tom,

Q I own a 2001 Ford Ranger (4.0 engine) with 116,000 miles. When I start

the truck after sitting over night, I hear what sounds like crankshaft bearing
noise that lasts about two seconds after the engine starts. Do you think
synthetic oil or “Motor Honey” will help prolong the engine life?

Darlene—Lubbock,    Texas

Darlene,

A I think you need to find the cause of the engine knock. Oil changes or

additives like Motor Honey, STP, or any one of the plethora of other such
products out there do not correct metal wear and fatigue inside an engine.
Engine knocks happen because metal has worn off the bearings and
crankshaft journal(s). Have an oil pressure test done to confirm the low oil
pressure that I suspect you have as a result of internal wear. If the pressure is
low, then partial engine disassembly with removal of the oil pan will be
necessary to determine the extent of the internal wear. If you find that the
crank and bearings are worn, look into replacing the engine with either a
factory rebuilt or Jasper remanufactured engine.

You might ask, why replace rather than rebuild? Because the labor,
parts, and machine shop service involved in rebuilding your old powerplant
will probably be more than replacement with a good quality rebuilt unit.