Engine Knocking Noise problems of the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado

I have a 1999 chevy Silverado that has been diagnosed with piston slap. This all started shortly after I purchased the vehicle in 1999. However, the dealer refused to fix it, stating that it is normal noise. (normal? then why didn't the engine make this noise when I first drove it off the lot)? I continued asking the dealer about the noise but they continued to say that it was normal noise. Finally, I took the vehicle to another gm dealer on April, 2004. The vehicle had 48,799 miles. I asked the mechanic and service representative to listen to the engine, both determined the noise was not normal, and needed repaired. They performed numerous engine repairs that seemed, at that time, to make the noise go away. In June, 2004, the vehicle now had 49,023 miles, the noise had returned, and the gm dealer again stated the noise was not normal. They then replaced the long block of the engine, that seemed to have taken care of the problem. As of this date, the vehicle is back at the gm dealership with the same engine noise, which is a loud ticking/knocking noise. I am, again, being told is "normal" for this engine. (this is statement is being quoted by general motors, as being "normal". Initially, when I recently took the vehicle to the gm dealership, the service technicians indicated the noise was not normal. . . Until the engineers at general motors conveyed the noise as being "normal". ).

Consumer stated that after 12,000 miles the engine was having a knocking sound. Consumer took vehicle to the dealer, and was told that there was no solution for the vehicle, and the manufacturer was exploring ways to remedy the defect.

From the very begining, the engine, (5. 3l), has made a ticking/knocking noise at start up (similar to what "noisy lifters). I was told by the dealer some time ago, that is was faulty pistons, ("piston slap"), with no solution yet. I have since also heard this from addtional automotive resources. It has continued to get worse. I spoke to the dealer again today, and am meeting with him tomorrow, leaving my truck so they can start it in the morning. I just anticipate a lot of problems. He has told me that they have had many trucks come back for the same reason, and have even replaced entire engines. But he also said it could be "carbon build up". I don't think so, because it was doing this from the first day off the lot. I hope I am wrong, but expect a very difficult battle to get the engine replaced. Any information or help you can give me would be greatly appreciated. I have talked to numerous other truck owners with the same problem. Some have had major repairs like new lifters, without success. But those who let the dealer do major repair, then later were told Chevrolet would not take the motor back and put a new one in, because the dealer had already "broke" into the engine. (didn't mean to write a book, but really would like some help/support. This is a very new and expensive truck, and I should not have an engine knocking with 40,000 miles on it, particularly from day one. I take meticulous care of this truck and change the oil like clock work every 3500 miles. Thanks so much for any help or direction you can provide! sincerely, doug malawey.