Engine noise/rattle when starting up??

[Rick V]

Timing chain slapping? It isn't too commom but not unheard of

Originally Posted by ecswtrav

Hi there,

My 2000 2.7 Boxster has developed a strange sound whenever I startup the engine from cold. The sound also happens on occasion when the car has been warmed up.

On starting the engine I get a grinding, maybe rattling type sound come from the back where the engine is - it doesnt stay on permanently, only for a few seconds and comes and goes. Initally I thought maybe the exhaust was loose but then when the car heats up the sound cannot be heard so ruled this out. The sound also has varying volume levels sometimes being rather loud.

The sound will also be present on and off when driving until it warms up. The type of sound is difficult to describe and seems to be doing no harm. Its been present now for a few weeks - I was kinda hoping the cold mornings were at fault but im not so sure why this would happen and why it still happens on very mild mornings?

Any help or suggestions would be gratefully appreciated as Im debating sending it to the garage and don't want to be conned into any expensive repair jobs when it may not be needed.

Thanks

[kabel]

I was thinking valve tick... which is no big deal. I get that frequently on the morning starts regardless of the ambient temp. The valves clatter for about 5-10 seconds.

[pk2]

I got it to. Not always and for 5secs or less. All my better judgment said it was the lifters, still a little unnerving. You guy give me some peace of mind.

My experience with flat motors, lifters will drain there oil “cushion” out overnight. It takes a few seconds to get them pumped up again to where they behave like a shock absorber/tensioners for the valves.

Regards, PK

[ecswtrav]

If it is the valves clattering should the sound come and go? People who hear the thing start up in the cold think the cars in a bad way, including me - surely that can't be right? It really does make a racket which to me is not normal.

Can anything be done about this valve tick or chain slapping that isnt gonna cost a fortune. Thanks