brchippy said:
I have a 2.2 astra bertone.
Hmm, well mine had rattle noise, very slight on a tuesday night, turn radio on cant hear it, turn radio off can hear something, open the window cant hear for the road noise.
I decided to check out my engine up the drive when i got home, anyhow all fluid levels were at the full mark.
I started up the engine with the bonnet lid open and listened for any strange rattling noises, but i didnt hear anything unusual.
Wednesday morning going to work still no noise, then after around 6 miles i heard the same little rattle as the previous day, i noticed though if i kept the engine around 2000 rpm it was quiet again, so i didnt know if it was something to do with my speed and wind noises.
About 100 yards from my work carpark it suddenly got a lot worse, so i switched off the engine and thought Oh dam its probably the timing chain.
Phoned a local garage to come take a look/listen , any way he said "doesnt sound like the timing chain, sounds heavier", I thought big ends surely not, anyhow he needed to investigate the problem, and i let him tow it to his garage.
Well the timing chain was OK, but in the sump were 2 big end shells and some particles of metal, the rattling was the conrod slapping about on the crankshaft.
I dont know what caused it, maybe faulty oil pump, but i dont recal seeing an oil light come on.
Another engine required.
I went for the easy option and got mine booked in for a full recon to be fitted. Could buy another of these cars for same price, but at least i know my engine would be ok.
So I hope its not that problem for yourself, its a tough decision to make what step to take, fix it or get another car 🙂