Spanner in my engine?

[ian187]

My car has developed a funny noise when I put the engine under torque - it sounds like a spanner rattling around inside the engine. It is fine at higher revs (2500+) or when I'm not booting it, but when I put the foot down the engine gives me this noise and it feels like I've got a loss of power.

I'm not sure, but it seems like my oil pressure may be a bit lower than it used to be (the oil level IS topped up!).

I'm not missing any spanners, so I'm sure I didn't leave one in the engine! Any ideas?

NB This noise developed all the time when I was having the problem with my coolant temp sensor, now I've replaced that, the car runs much better, but I still have this noise when I press the big pedal!

[ian187]

After reading some previous posts, I'm guessing that the noise may be down to "pinking".

I do use Optimax, but did put some redex in the last time I filled up, could this cause it?

I've also noticed that generally the car is fine until it heats up, the problem is mainly there when the car is at 90+

Any advice.

NB Assuming that pinking isn't good for the engine, but is it OK as long as I don't floor it. ie although it may suffer from pinking under heavy accceleration, will it cause any damage to the engine if I don't accelerate heavy. I ask because I want to use the car next week and if I don't fix this prob, should I leave it at home or just drive slower?

[ntel]

Just a thought Ian. Have you checked the exhaust manifolds for cracks? I had a noise a couple of weeks ago similar to that you described. It turned out to be a 30mm long crack on the exhaust from number 1 cylinder. It was just a simple case of welding it up.

Also have you noticed any difference in the exhaust note. Is it quieter? Couple this with a loss of power then the pre-cats could have disintegrated and blocked the main cat. I suspect this has happened to mine and its being sorted on Wednesday.

Good luck

Dave

[Horse_Apple]

Hi,

Definately sounds like pinking.

If it has just started then it could be down to some duff fuel of the engine going off song.

A tune up should fix it.

I've had pinking for years and the cheapest fix is to retard the ignition slightly. Not ideal as you lose a little power but is stops all engine damage without costing any money until you decide to have it dealt with properly.

Until then i suggest you don't boot it as it isn't good for the engine.