Dodge: Sounds like a lifter sticking???, haynes manual, roller rockers

Question
I have a 98 Dakota Sport 2WD V6 with 85K miles and relatively no engine/drive train problems with one exception.  There is a knocking/ticking sound coming from the motor.  It goes away some as the truck warms up and also at lower RPMs.  My father who raced and worked on engines for over 10 years says its a lifter that is sticking.  First of all does this sound fairly reasonable?  I am thinking I will take it to a shop that I trust and have them replace the lifters.  If it truely is a lifter sticking, do you think that simply replacing the lifters will take care of the problem and if so is there a particular brand that you would recommend for everyday driving?  Third, while they have the valve covers off, would you consider it a good idea to replace the push rods and maybe even install some roller rockers?  Last, is there anywhere I can go and find out vehicle specific build information using a VIN decoder for engine, tranny, and drive train info?  Sorry to bombard you with so many questions but its obvious I need to make friends with some good mechanics.  Thanks in advance for taking time to read this email.

Keith Thaxton

Answer
Keith,
This is possible on the lifter,I would try changing oil and adding a quart of transmission fluid to the oil,this might help the problem if it is a lifter.Also you can try to determine which side the noise is on and remove the valve cover and check for any excess play in the rocker assembly.If they need to be changed you can buy them at a parts store as far as brand it's all a matter of opinion,but you can generally trust what the parts stores offer.For everyday driving i would go with the original parts.As far as changing the pushrods it all depends on the wear.I would be careful if you take it to a dealer due to the fact that they will want to replace everything.I would recommend a Haynes manual,for a Dakota.The Haynes seems to be more specific with the info.Thanks RamMan