Ticking radio...very strange

[Gage2502]

OK I really dont listen to AM radio but once in a while I do. So every time the AM radio is on I hear a ticking from the speakers, it happens only when the engine is running and only on AM. This is the weird part I notice that if I have a portable AM radio in the truck I get the same ticking from the portable radio speakers.
Does anyone know whats going on?
P.S. I have the factory radio with 6-disk CD if that helps.
Thanks

 

[FordandPolaris]

I think it is just the way AM frequencies are transmitted. Mine does that too, and so does my dad's 04. Sounds like electrical whistle and then a pop. Then it repeats the pattern, whole thing last like 2-3 seconds per cycle.

 

[toms89]

AM is more prone to electrical interference simply by its design. That is its disadvantage vs FM. Its likely its picking up ignition noise since you mentioned ticking. Could even be picking up misfire?!

 

[97EddieExped]

Poor quality audio wires can pickup and transmit ambient noises. AM is even more vulnerable to this.

 

[toms89]

Poor quality audio wires can pickup and transmit ambient noises. AM is even more vulnerable to this.

That is true but he mentioned it was the same on a portable am radio as well...

 

[97EddieExped]

Sorry, I skimmed. That's just AM radio.

 

[stamp11127]

Audio Noise Filter for an AM Radio Speaker | eHow.com

 

[Gage2502]

Thanks everyone....I should of thought of a filter.....I think I might try this...
Amazon.com: Car FM AM Radio Stereo Inline Antenna Noise Sound Filter: Car Electronics

 

[stamp11127]

Now if your really into radio, see how distant of a signal you can pick up during the winter months. I usually spin the dial while "the boss" is shopping. One night I picked up a station from Hawaii - I'm in Temple, GA. Guessing it went over the pole. Sounded loud and clear, almost as though I was next to the transmitter. And they say FM doesn't bounce.