I have an 83 Ranger 2.3L 4. It had been setting for a few years. It was/is going to be a V8 swap project. I’ll get headed that way again soon. But for now I am using it to get to work and back.

I am having a knock/rattle that is coming from the engine at higher rpm under a load (like going up a hill or take off). It does not matter what gear I am in. But when crusing it does not make a noise. I have change the oil and use some of that engine rebuild stuff (thick oil) to see if that would take care of it for now, but it still makes the noise. I have not checked the valve clearance yet, but I would think if that was the problem I would hear it at idle. It could be a rod may be, but I am not sure.

Can anyone get me some suggestions (cheap!)?

Oh, I can’t do the engine swap for a couple of months. (Have to get all the parts and have the time to do it.) So that would not be a good fix for now. Hehe

Thanks

 

So, this noise isn't "ping" ? Try some premium gas just to be sure.
AL.

 

No it's not ping. It does it even with 92 gas.

 

Rod bearings usually make their noise on decceleration or if you snap the throttle.
Mains on a heavy pull, deep heavy knock.