Loud Noise On Starting & Now Engine Rattle

[gagah]

2.0 ltr Galaxy P 97 117,000 miles has been making the loud noise on starting

intermittently for about a year, despite changing the starter motor but not

too concerned as otherwise fine.

 

However, over last two months, an engine rattle has developed at idle/low

revs which disappears over 1500 revs and car appears normal.

 

Now going in for MOT and service and so have mentioned to garage.

They suggested the timing chain whilst another 'expert' suggested

the camshaft may be worn or the valves. Moderate loss of mpg but

not using any oil.

 

Any ideas ? Are the two problems linked ?

[johnb80]

Cam chain stretched / tensioner worn out / chain guides broken up would be my guess from what you have said.

 

Regards - JB

[Steven.Langdale]

I'd go for timing chain, maybe the tensioners knackerd, get someone to open it up and look at it ASAP.

[gagah]

Thanks guys - I think you're right.

 

However, asked the garage to check it over and noticed that it stops

making the rattling noise once it gets warm. Also, since the garage

changed the oil, it is nowhere near as bad.

 

Seems that what you're saying is starting to happen but not yet that

bad as yet.

 

How long d'you think I've got before I need to get the timing chain

changed ? Is it going to be okay for a few months ?

What is likely to be the next development to listen for which

may spell disaster ?