Alfa 156 JTD engine rattle at idle

[holmsie]

Hi!

Asking this on behalf of a friend.

He has a 2.4 JTD that has a loud rattle that appears on startup. The rattle goes away when the engine speed is increased and also quietens down when the fans kick in momentarily. It almost sounds like the rocker cover or something is loose and only happens at idle speed. Any ideas?

Chris

[wrinx]

Without a more accurate indication of the area where the noise is it could be many things.

But as you mention the top of the engine it could be something like a noisy tappet or the clearances need checking.

Otherwise...need more info.

wrinx

[sunbeam_alpine]

Check the bolts on the exhaust manifold.

[holmsie]

When looking in the engine bay, the noise seems to be loudest down the left hand side of the engine. It's not using any oil and it's not down on power. Does sound like something is loose and knocking together with the vibrations at idle speed!
I'll get him to check the exhaust manifold bolts.

Thanks!

[wrinx]

Ahhh right, get him to check all of the moving parts down there for play, but particularly the crankshaft pulley.

It has a rubber centre which acts as a vibration damper...this can deteriorate allowing the outer part to vibrate and make a metallic noise...it will get louder in time if your mate can't be sure.

Had this on my 2001 JTD, replacement part was around £100 iirc.

wrinx

[RicksAlfas]

Grab hold of the head and rock it hard. (With the engine off!).
I had a top engine mount go on mine. Not uncommon.

[holmsie]

Just to update, my mates car broke down last week and it turns out it was the pulley system on the steering, which fell out of the bottom of the car!!

Sorted now for £200 apparently.

Thanks for your help!

Chris.

[wrinx]

Bugger...guess he didn't check it then :?

wrinx