5.2 ltr V8 magnum 2000 dodge Durango push rods or Lifters. Would they make a

[joyce]

similar noise if they are bad? My Durango just starting making a back tapping sound. How do you know if it is a lifter gone bad, a rocker arm, a rod...etc, If they all make the same tapping noise. I still have power, no engine lights on etc. I took it to a mechanic and they suggested a new engine. How do I find out what is wrong with this one. There is no smoke, no overheating, everything still works fine. It's not using oil? What would you do to find out if something is really wrong with the engine that it may need to be replaced? Spend $500.00 taking it apart or 2K just to get a rebuilt engine installed? Spend the $500.00 and still need another engine? If I do need another engine can the old engine be fixed and resold? I am just not a mechanic.....Thank you