Engine Rattle... (not chain guide)

[Ruby240]

Ok guys, maybe this is new maybe not. I know its not my chain guides, as I don't have them. Back in Jan of last year, I popped the original engine and put in another DE. Before I put that engine in the car, I took off both chain guides. At the time the tensioner was good, so I didn't replace it (wish I did now just so I would know for sure).

Now, I still have a rattle. This is only at IDLE. As soon as any rpm above 1200, it goes away but it comes back when at idle. It does this when the car is cold and warm.

Any ideas?

[Revhard_s14]

I think its something in your timing chain still. I have a friend that did the same thing as you and took off the guides, but the rattle was still there. My car had the rattle too but i just got a whole new Timing Chain assembly and problem solved. I can't be too sure what you mean by "rattle" either unless i hear it in person.

[sittinsideways]

i have a nasty rattle. not at idle but when i accelerate. it gets madd loud

[bongnak]

sounds like a rod knockin there brother
i have a nasty rattle. not at idle but when i accelerate. it gets madd loud

[aznpoopy]

i think you answered your own question

if the guide is loose or just sitting on the chain, the guide is the problem
if the guide is tight or removed already and the chain is rattling, the chain is stretched or the tensioner is busted

[Ruby240]

Well the guides are gone, so I know its not them. The tensioner could very well be the problem, it didn't leave any slack when I pulled the stuff a year ago, but could be the problem by now.

I just didn't know if anyone else ran across this problem after the chain guides were taken out.

[wonkuuzenki]

it could possibly be the water pump...
my old ka 240 did this aswell due to a water pump that needed replacement.

[Ruby240]

The water pump?? I've never heard one that rattled only at idle and not with the engine RPM, as there aren't any parts that are "loose". I would think that if the water pump impeller made the noise or even the bearing, it would increase with RPM, and the cooling system all but short of fail.

[aznpoopy]

if its any accessory, including the water pump, you can isolate it by starting the car with the accessory belt disconnected; or you can use a stethoscope to listen to the accessory with the car running.

[Ruby240]

Well, I can tell it is definatly comming from under the valve cover. Going to check it out this weekend hopefully.