The tapping at start up is common. I had that problem and people said to change the oil filter, because of the valve allowing oil to settle in some filters. I also used a good oil additive and it went away. It comes back and I know I'm due for an oil change.

99 Sportage 2Dr, 1.5" body lift, 30x9.50 Cooper M/T's, high lift, CB, custom bumpers, Warn manual hubs, Tom Tom GPS, snorkel.
99 Jeep Cherokee 3" lift, 31" mud terrains