Durango has tapping sound at start up

I have a 2004 durango that recently started tapping at start up . the sound is coming from the engine and goes away after the engine warms up. Can anyone help ?

Thanks

Tbone:

You do not say which engine you have, but both the 4.7 and to a less extent the 5.7 have exhaust manifold leak issues due to bolts either breaking, or loosening up.

The noise goes away after a short time because the metal expands, and closes the gap where the leak is.

I will put my money on this being the remedy for you.

Don

My 2002 Durango SXT 4x4 with the 4.7L engine does the same thing. I had the Dodge dealer check it and it is a valve. The mechanic was making an exhaust repair on a 5.7L engine at the time that N8ECH described to you. Could be either one.