Driver's side:

IMG_20220413_1909014.jpg

And here's the problem I'm having: 2006 Ranger XLT - Dreaded Misfire

I read that cracks in the exhaust manifold can usually be heard as a rattling type sound when the exhaust gas is escaping, but that it goes away as the engine warms up and the metal expands. In my case, I am hearing a mechanical (almost plastic) clicking sound that increases and decreases with RPMs but it's definitely not going away. Strangely, I can hear it well from the tail pipe and not so much from the engine area. I used the stethoscope on the cylinder head and couldn't hear anything and nothing sounded broken.

That would be a cracked manifold. You could have it welded or source some newer, even new ones OE or aftermarket and some new gaskets and call it a day.

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