OK just recently got it cranked back up, cleaned maf sensor, camsft sensor....

As soon as it starts up until i turn it off, it idles around 1700 rpm at initial start up then recedes to around 800 rpm. At some points almost dying out completely giving a little throttle when it does keeps it alive. I have a video that i recorded of it but doesn't give me an option to share it anywhere on here.

Any way to test and VERIFY oil PRESSURE? Unless the knock is external and you can easily remove the drive belt(s) for elimination of alt. , A/C , P/S idler pullies , etc.---see where I'm going?

I definitely understand the direction your headed, it's a 3.0 duratec transverse mounted. So not the easiest to get to the drive belt but possible. It's more from rear head, timing chain area.... In mine and my friends opinion. But I'll check that next chance i get thank you for the response