Odd engine or exhaust sound
 

I have noticed that around 1.5-2.5k rpms there is an odd noise coming from the exhaust or the engine. Almost like a rattle snake mixed with a barrel of metal nails that is spinning around. Everything with the car checked out when we bought it and i really didnt notice but now I notice almost everytime i drive. Any ideas

Loose heat sheild?

Damaged cat.?

Broken baffles in the muffler?

Is this common? My mechanic said I had a loose baffle in my muffler...'03 986 with 30k on the clock. Most noticable after cold start, tends to quiet down after warmup.

What are my options?

replace just the defective muffler, whole new or aftermarket exhaust

I ask, because I don't need/like another exhaust component failing any time soon.

The engine rattles slighty especially at start up. This is a normal trait of flat engines and I can't tell you what you're hearing is normal without a sound clip.

Took it in to Porsche dealer mechanic...replaced the (right) cat...noise gone