My 93 240 SX SE makes a Rattling Noise...

[MikeOTM]

My 93 240 SX SE has been making a very loud rattling noise that seems to be coming from infront of the valve cover. I think it might be my timing chain but before I try to go and fix that I need to know for sure. Sometimes the sound gets louder and sometimes it goes away... I really need help because I need this car working without worry to get to work ... I need help bad.. Someone please reply or IM me on AIM at "Mike OTMx". If you want I could probably record this noise in a movie file. If you've had this noise from your engine too PLEASE reply to this thread... cause I'm really unsure if I'm right or not. Also, it started as a squeaking, and now it's a rattling... If that helps.

[NISTECH]

could be any number of things,yes the timing chain is very common on these but it could simply be a accesory pulley causeing the noise. movie file would be cool.

[MikeOTM]

Well I told my dad that I think it's the timing chain and he put the metal end of a screwdriver on the cover for the top chiming chain and listened through the handle and you could really hear it from there. So I believe its the timing chain... How hard is it to replace? And if it's doesn't need to be replaced how hard would it be to take those "Unnecessary parts" off that I read about in the FAQs on 240sx.org?

[240-4-me]

I also have a 93 240SX that is making the same sort of noise you mention. The ol' srecwdriver trick indicates the noise is coming from the timing chain-tensioner. I pulled the valve cover and took a quick look. The chain does have some very noticeable slack in it.Changing the chain and tensioner doesn't look like something I want to get involved in. The joy of taking apart the front of the motor, distributor, and getting everything back in the proper location and timing with no oil leaks is better off done by someone with more tools and experience than me. I can always go back to the machanic if something goes wrong. Gonna start calling around tomorrow for estimates.

[240-4-me]

I've had to change my position on having the mechanic do the work. Shop estimates started at $850.00!!!! Going to start tearing down the engine myself. Thought I would check and replace items on the top cam chain assembly first to see if that fixes the noise problem. I if not, then to the bottom chain I go! Have been checking alot of Nissan sites to get as much info as I can. From reading all of the info I tend to believe most of the noise might be coming from the guides and/or tensioner. I'm really hoping to avoid a total replacement job.

[MikeOTM]

I've gotten a new timing chain component kit, but I can't begin replacing it because I can't get that damn bottom cover off for the lower timing chain... It's stuck and wont move... All the bolts are out, atleast I think so... I've felt around to see if theres anymore and I don't feel any. Is there one thats hidden or something??? Or do I just gotta try to pry harder on the damn thing? Let me know... Cause I need to finish this..

[NISTECH]

did you remove the oil pan too?

[s13EastTN]

I beleive that there should be a sticky in the KA forums about how you have to remove the oil pan and the oil pickup for the most part to get the front cover off.

don't worry, I had the same questions. :p

[240-4-me]

Thanks for all the help. One more question, since the oil pan doesn't come completely out from under the engine what was the best way to apply the RTV sealant to the oil pan/block surface to get a complete seal?

[s13EastTN]

Finger!

[240-4-me]

Simple enough! I guess I was trying to over complicate the process. Parts to be here in two days. Hard to find things in stock around here, plenty of stuff for your pickup truck! Replacing both chains, tensioners and lower passenger side guide. Will also throw in new water pump, thermostat and drive belts. front of the motor should be good to go another 100K. We'll see just how much fun it is putting everything back.Again, thanks to everyone who has helped me through this little project.

[DrIfT_FoReVeR]

so what;s the status? is it running again? i need to know cause my car is making the same noise, and i think it may be from an oil leak, causing pressure inside to drop condsiderably. this may explain my rich condition.

[240-4-me]

The engine is not back together yet. I'm still waiting for the lower tensioner guide to arrive. Everything else is ready to go. I am hoping the assembly will go a little smoother than taking it apart. Now that I know where all of the nuts and bolts go, and things are alot cleaner I think it's just a matter of taking time to get the things back where they belong. Along with changing both timing chains I'm also replacing the water pump, all the belts, thermostat and alternator. I shouldn't have to do anything to the front of the engine for a long time. As soon as the man driving the brown truck shows up I'll start in.