Does the 2003 Chevy Tahoe have a distributor, and if so, where is it located?

tpackard1

My 03 Tahoe has recently started making a tapping noise (described as piston slap from what I understand) only on a cold start. It's only been doing this about a week, and when the engine warms up, it goes away. Ive also noticed some fluctuation in the RPMs around 40-45 mph. I've recently added an aftermarket air intake, but the problems don't appear to be associated. Just had the tranny rebuilt, replaced the MAF, and had the throttle body cleaned. I'm about to replace the fuel filter myself. The engine has 166,XXX miles on it, but I've never had any trouble until recently. Also, I drive like an old man.

Mr_Shiftright

Piston slap really isn't a tapping noise. It is deeper and very subtle. But anyway, what problem are you trying to solve here? Also tell us which engine you have.

tpackard1

I'm trying to solve the tapping and varying RPMs. The reason I asked about the distributor was because I thought it may be possible misfire? But that doesn't explain why it only taps on a cold start. It's a 2003 Chevy Tahoe 5.3L 

tahoelt10

Check your fuel pump sensor and volm manifold w/sensor. My truck was doing the same thing... Also replace the transmission dipstick if you haven't already.