RAM 1500 5.7 HEMI: Cracked Exhaust Manifolds and Broken Bolts

A ticking noise from a 5.7 HEMI RAM 1500, worst on a cold start and fading as it warms up, is very often the exhaust manifolds rather than anything internal. Here is why it happens and what to do about it.

Why the manifolds and bolts fail

The HEMI exhaust manifolds and their bolts go through huge heat cycles. Over time the bolts, especially the rear ones that run hottest, stretch and snap, and the manifolds themselves can crack. Once a bolt breaks or a manifold cracks, exhaust gas escapes at the head and you get that distinctive cold-start tick.

How to tell it apart from a lifter

A manifold or bolt tick is loudest when the engine is cold and usually quietens as everything expands and seals up with heat. A lifter or cam tick tends to stay with you and often comes with a misfire. They are easy to confuse, so it is worth confirming the source before assuming the worst.

The fix

The repair is replacing the broken or stretched manifold bolts, and the manifold too if it has cracked or warped. Broken bolts often shear flush with the head and need careful extraction, which is the fiddly part of the job. Fresh bolts and gaskets restore the seal and kill the tick.

The takeaway

• A cold-start tick that fades with heat usually points at the manifolds, not the bottom end.
• Do not ignore it. A leaking manifold can warp and a snapped bolt only gets harder to remove.
• Confirm the source before committing to major engine work.

We diagnose and repair HEMI exhaust manifolds and supply the gaskets and hardware. Browse 5.7 HEMI parts or get in touch.

General information only, not a substitute for a diagnosis on your vehicle.