Is it typical for the vortec engine to have a ticking noise? What is this noise?

Very common. No matter what kinda oil or oil additive you add will make it go away. Mine has been doin it since Ive had it. Goin on 200k now and still running strong.

good to hear and thanks.

Welcome!!

My 03 6.0 also does that with 112000 on it.. I'm running full synthetic

Glad to know I'm not the only one too