2004 blazer / how much oil?

I remember some discussion on this when I had my old 93 S-10 Blazer two years ago.....now that I have a 2004 I wanted to ask opinions on this again....2004 Blazer, 4.3 4WD, do you folks runs exactly 5 qts of oil or do you add some for the remote filter? I get a little lifter noise at just the oil mark or below when starting up, none while driving. Engine has 104,000 miles, has been ran with synthetic oil, has great oil pressure, clean as a whistle inside and out. I ran my old 93 at 5.5 qts. never had a problem, but GM service manual says nothing about this on my 2004. I also use Purolator oil filters, and engine oil changed at 6-7K. The original owner had it on 7K since new.

You should add as many as it takes to read full on the dipstick.

4.5-4.75 with new filter if it is a 4.3

We've all heard that over filling is a definite no-no. I was told that is because the excess oil in the pan will churn and foam resulting in air in the oil, and an insufficient amount of oil getting to where it needs to be because of the air/oil mixture. I have also been told that the extra oil will cause leaks.

What say the experts?

I get a little lifter noise at just the oil mark or below when starting up, none while driving.

A small amount of lifter noise at start is no real cause for alarm. The lifters need to fill up with oil, especially after sitting a while. It could also be due to dirty lifters. I would not be overly concerned as long as it goes away within a few seconds after start up.

A small amount of lifter noise at start is no real cause for alarm. The lifters need to fill up with oil, especially after sitting a while. It could also be due to dirty lifters. I would not be overly concerned as long as it goes away within a few seconds after start up.
It does, was just curious about the remote, as there was quite a disussion on that topic and I wanted to see if it was a concern. As I remember the amount of oil in the lines was not much but some were running a half quart over at that time. I don't mind my 96 Silverado clacking a bit (231,000 miles, 5.7L) but just curious on this one. I noticed a little difference when I added a cup or so today to bring it to level, as i will top off after about 4K, but just a small amount. Guess I will just leave it be then.