4L SOHC Low rpm rattle

[7aawilson]

I've done a lot of research on the 4l timing chains in my 2006 ranger, but haven't quite heard of something like what's happening with mine. It just got up to 100000 miles, on cold starts it sounds perfectly fine, no rattle, and at the higher rpm there's no rattle. But if I'm anywhere in the 1000-1400 rpm range, mostly in second gear (it's a manual), I hear what i think are the chains chattering against the guides sometimes. I'm wondering if it has something to do with naturally lower oil pressure at that rpm, and most importantly, is this really a big issue? Its not super loud, the radio can easily drown it out, and it's not like a whipping sound, it just sounds like chains against plastic. Is this just how the engine behaves or is there an issue here

 

[SenorNoob]

That really sounds like it's lugging. I'd keep it in 1st gear longer...

 

[7aawilson]

Even in just 2nd gear? I have the 4.1 axle ratio and that truck still feels like it has plenty of power at that rpm, especially if I'm just cruising in traffic or a parking lot

 

[7aawilson]

I'd be happy to wind first out longer, just trying to see if the issue is lugging or something with the timing chains. Honestly id prefer it to be lugging, I'm still fairly new to this truck and am learning how it behaves.

 

[SenorNoob]

I can't speak to the chains except to say you are probably due tensioners at that mileage.

My OHV will lug at anything below 2k rpm. It sucks for taking off slowly with the 3.73 gears and 29.5in tires. If i wanna get moving quick it's fine.