2002 8.1 ticking under power

[bobcshaw]

I suddenly developed a ticking noise from the driver's side when towing. It doesn't sound like pre-ignition, and it's not exactly consistent with engine rpm's. It's more power/fuel consumption related. Would the fuel pump do that? Would the fuel pump make a clicking sound if the fuel filter was dirty? It started this about 5 miles into a trip, towing a large trailer, actually before I got onto the highway. It did it all the way home, about 500 miles.

It's kinda hard to find since it doesn't make the noise when it's idling.

 

[Bill325]

Engine belts can make ticking or even knocking sounds , and can immitate more serious problems. See if your belt ( a serpentine belt, I assume) has any places on it that are obviously damaged . Any missing rubber can make noises.
However, small cracks on the rubber grooves side don't necessarily mean a bad belt. Idler pulleys that may run on the front or back of the belt can also start making noises, usually due to a bearing going bad. I once worked on a car that the owner insisted had a connecting rod knock . It turned out to be a noisy belt.

 

[bobcshaw]

Thanks for the come-back. wouldn't a belt issue make noise anytime the motor is running? Mine is just making the ticking sound when under power.