RabidRat

Since nearly day one that I've had my car back in September '08, I've heard this rattling/clicking noise at idle coming from the motor that seems to come and go. It used to be very rare that it happened, and pretty quiet, but now it's become more frequent and louder.

It never happens when the car's been sitting for a couple hours, only if it's been warmed up or hasn't been sitting long. I only hear the sound at idle up to about 2000 rpm, and never at higher rpms than that.

Any thoughts on what this could be? The fact that the sound doesn't come if it's cold is kinda strange.

alSpeed2k

Timing chain tensioner?

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showt...&#entry10692285

RabidRat

Hmm. I took my car to AJR today and Ben says he's 80% sure it's the above as well. This is promising, I'll keep you guys updated =).

RabidRat

Wow. Upon listening to that video, I'm pretty damn sure myself. The noise is identical!

Vik2000

I'm not a mechanic but from my analysis, I think Kathy is moaning due to your constant VTECing.

alSpeed2k

Lol, Kathy! You could probably DYI. A few Vancouver members have done it before.

RabidRat

okay it's confirmed, it was the timing chain autotensioner afterall!! very easy install too, and didn't require draining the oil like the guide said to.

alSpeed2k

Did someone do it for you?

RabidRat

nope, i did it.

i got really nervous at the prospect of having to get the motor open to do this, but then i took a look at your link and it turns out it's a no-brainer haha

alSpeed2k