Strange noise.

[catman1030]

My 98 XLT makes a crazy noise at startup. It kind of sounds like there is something loose and rattling, but it quits after it begins to warm up and it is not at an idle. I thought it may be the exhaust, so I had it looked at. My convertors were replaced (they will always find something wrong), but it didn't fix the problem. Some people seem to think it could be the heat shield. I don't know enough about them, and everytime I get somewhere where someone can look at it, because it is warm, it doesn't make the noise. Has anyone had a similar problem?

 

[snoborder42]

It sounds like you have the dreaded "Timing Chain Rattle"...

Does it sound similar to a can of spray paint when you are shaking it???

Which engine do you have??? 4.0L OHV or 4.0L SOHC???

 

[catman1030]

Yea, kinda. really loud.
SOHC

 

[daffy]

Does it also sound like you have bad (real bad) spark knock (pinging) between 2500-3000 RPM under load?

If so, more likely to be the timing chain problems, new tensioners and oil galley plug may help for a while, but it may be headed south.

 

[saewoody]

I agree with the "death rattle" of the timing chain diagnosis.

I've been running mine for close to a year with it and am just hoping it holds out one more month until we get the minivan!