[AkiRofe]

Hi is every one well?

I am in Sydney and have just bought a 2002 Boxster - why I didn't acquire this wonderful thing earlier I don't know!

Just one day after purchasing the car (for a very good $10K below market price from a very nice old man as as-is private sale, and already have a strong feeling for it, honestly >< so I want to fix rather than return it), I noticed an engine rattling/knocking noise.

I think these are IMPORTANT infos:
0. With a stethoscope and without taking the engine out, the mechanic told me he heard the noise coming from the timing chain area.
00. The ticking is faster than, and not, the 0.5 second ticking.
1. The noise started quiet and got louder after ~5 minutes as the car warm up.
2. After being tilted to get on a tow truck, the noise disappeared for a good 30 minutes.
3. After a quick check it's not exhaust shield nor anything outside. It's 'inside'
4. I hope the previous owner serviced the car before selling and may have used wrong type of oil viscosity...
5. Oil level is good.
6. It's winter time so before start the oil temperature is around 15 Celcius.

An engine-out diagnosis only here cost $3K so I have spend $600 with 2 mechanics and still nobody could 100% pins point the problem without engine-out.

As an unfortunate cynical person, I only have 80% trust on the everything in life including the poor Porsche mechanics/dealers , and always want to know everything myself . I am here seeking you guys' helps with the best of your guess, before I shed $3K for engine-out diagnosis:

1. Would these factors be in line with a timing chain area problem?

2. Would just changing to a heavier / lighter oil help?

3. What else could it be please?

And, could you please tell me if I go ahead to have engine out to fix the timing chain area:
A. Would it a save in "engine out labour" to also do the IMS?
B. What else to do as well for prevention please?

Thank you very much again to everyone and hope you are well.

Kind Regards,
__________________
TIM QUACH Director/Architect | SydneyByDesign.com.au
Wolli Creek, NSW 2205, Australia.
Current car (love him!): 2002 Boxster blue/tan
All previous cars (love them all!): 2003 BMW 325ci, 2001 BMW 320ci, 2002 Toyota Celica, 1998 Toyota Celica