Rattle from engine.

[andyslade]

Just got back from a trip away in the 3.2.
After a 1.5 hour run on the motorway,i now have a rattle from the engine.
Its coming from the cam chain area,and is worse at 1-3k rpm.
Had this once before around a year ago and it disapeared the next day.
This time however it seems worse.
I am thinking camchain idler or something.
Anyone have a clue?

Andrew.

 

[andyslade]

Thanks for the reply.
When i remove the covers,how can i tell if the chain tensioner is gone?

Thanks,
Andrew.

 

[andyslade]

Thanks.
If they need replacing,is it a straight forward job to do?
Has anyone done this on their car?

Regards,
Andrew.

 

[alex.powell]

If the idler is fully extended then the chains need replacing, if not you could try re priming them after a damn good cleaning! Will cost a set of gaskets, but may be worth a go. If you do suspect the tentioner then get some new ones.. You should be able to do both in an hour or so... To prime, put them into. Bowl of oil and squeeze piston with grips(carefully) the process is documented in wd's 101 jobs book

good luck!