broken timing chain tensioner?

[Dispatch6350]

I have a 2016 RAM 1500 w/5.7 Hemi w/117000 miles. It has developed a random ticking noise that appears to be from the front of the engine. It is only noticeable at idle, seems to go away as soon as you accelerate the throttle. It is not as continuous tap like a lifter and definitely not broken exhaust manifold bolt. I suspect it is a broken timing chain tensioner, but would really like some conformation before I tear into the engine. Anybody have any experience with this?

 

[fadetoblack188]

you suspect the time chain tension broke but its not causing the teeth on the chain to jump?

 

[fadetoblack188]

post a video

 

[Dispatch6350]

Correct, I'm still driving it and other than the random tap at idle and about 3 mpg reduction it appears to run fine.

 

[fadetoblack188]

a lift tap isn't always constant.

 

[jws123]

Post a vid of it not common at all for the tensioner or chain to go bad i never changed one even when i do cams.

 

[Dispatch6350]

Keeping an open mind but it's like no valve tap I've ever heard. It is a single higher pitched ping and at random intervals.

 

[Dispatch6350]

I will try to get an audio recording of the sound tomorrow.

 

[Dispatch6350]

I was never able to get a good audio recording of the tap to post here. Update on the truck: I finally took it to an independent auto repair shop that I trust. They have diagnosed it as the dreaded Hemi lifter tick.