V8 Tap tap

[0856Beater]

Hello my 2008 Pathfinder LE V8 is tapping under load . No such noise while idling or cruising just under acceleration. Has 125k miles on it and since I am replacing my radiator this weekend was wondering if there is something I could look for while I have everything taken apart.

[mdmellott]

With age, even well maintained engines will get sticky components. The detergent additives in oils today do well to help reduce build up of varnish on bearings, lifters, rings, etc. but eventually some build up occurs which will cause issues. I have a very well maintained '02 Pathfinder that had the same tapping noise occur, mostly under load, but I finely figured it out and eliminated the cause with a simple product. I am not a big fan of additives but Sea Foam High Mileage Motor Treatment added to the oil cleaned up my issue completely. It's worth giving it a try to at least rule out the possibility that your issue is the same as mine was.

[silverarrow27]

The only thing that comes to mind is you have an exhaust manifold leak.

[0856Beater]

I will try the Sea Foam as a hopefully easy fix. If it is an exhaust manifold leak I happen to have replacements on the shelf.

[palmerwmd]

If it is an exhaust manifold leak I happen to have replacements on the shelf.

Wow how cool is that!