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Symptoms · 6.4 HEMI (gas)
6.4 HEMI (gas): ticking, knocking, rattle or whine
3 documented failures on this engine list this among their signs. They are ordered from the most widespread down. Each one shows the signs in its record's own words, how to tell it from the others, the usual fix and any recall or bulletin.
Not sure which engine you have, or want the recalls for your exact truck? Check your VIN: it names the engine and lists the campaigns for that model year. Whether a recall is still open on your VIN: nhtsa.gov/recalls.
aggregated
How widespread: Common
17 NHTSA owner complaints match it, out of 80 checked
How it shows up
- constant valvetrain tick that does not warm-and-quiet
Its other signs
- misfire / dead cylinder on one bank
- metallic debris in the oil on neglected cases
How to tell it apart
- confirm constant (valvetrain) vs warm-and-quiet (exhaust) tick first - the cheap confusion is expensive
- oil-pressure check and filter cutting before teardown
- on a confirmed lifter: inspect the matching cam lobe - a flaked lobe means cam replacement; identify standard vs deactivating lifters per cylinder position before ordering
Usual fix
replace lifter(s) / cam as inspection dictates; flush and correct the oil service interval afterwards
Recalls and bulletins
9100229STAR S1709000010 (Rev., Rev. B)
Root cause, parts and sources →
aggregated
How widespread: Common
How it shows up
- weep-hole seepage / bearing noise at higher mileage
Its other signs
- temperature swings under tow
How to tell it apart
- pressure-test the system; inspect the weep hole and bearing play
- check thermostat opening under load before replacing the radiator
Usual fix
service: water pump / thermostat hardware as wear
Root cause, parts and sources →
aggregated
How widespread: Common
How it shows up
- ticking at cold start that quiets as metal warms, often reported around the 60k-mile class
Its other signs
- exhaust smell / soot trace at the manifold flange
- repeat failures after bolt-only repairs (warped manifolds keep working the new bolts loose)
How to tell it apart
- listen at cold start per runner; confirm the tick warms-and-quiets (exhaust) vs constant (valvetrain)
- inspect for sheared bolts and manifold flange warping before ordering hardware
- replace manifolds + bolts as a set on confirmed warp
Usual fix
replace manifold(s), fasteners and gaskets; both banks are conventional exhaust without aftertreatment hardware in the manifold path
Root cause, parts and sources →
Other symptoms on the 6.4 HEMI (gas)
Misfire, rough idle, hesitation or surging
Everything on the 6.4 HEMI (gas)Its recalls and bulletins