S14 SR - Rattle Rattle!

[ArcherV20]

I'm running an S14 SR20DET for those of you who didn't read the title :P - and as of a few days ago, it's been making an odd noise under acceleration. Let me detail it the best I can:

There is a rattle, or buzzing noise coming from the engine within the first second or two of being on the gas. Doesn't matter if I'm coming off the clutch, or letting off the pedal and then getting back on the gas. Anytime I try to accelerate in lower RPM's - I get this odd rattle coming from the engine bay. It reminds me very much of the VTC rattle, and I'm wondering if that may be the issue.

1) At idle, and in N - revving the engine, there is no rattle.2) Above 2.5 - 3K RPM's the rattle dissapears3) Seems to be coming from the passenger side of the engine bay4) Sounds very much like the VTC rattle the engies have at start up..

Anyone have any ideas on what I should diagnose, or even better have an answer or similar problem? Thanks guys.

[Seishuku]

Probably VCT solenoid... Know anyone that you could borrow one from? lol

[jr_ss]

Mine does this at cold/warm start up. Seems to only do it at start-up and when I give it a little bit of gas to get the car moving. Once it rattles in that first time, it doesn't do it until the next time I drive, if it does it then.

[ArcherV20]

It used to be just like yours jr_ss - but now it just stays with me whenever I touch the gas. I'm doing a bit of searching around and I think it might be the VTC Sprocket? or Solenoid?..argh.

[jr_ss]

Well, if you have the means, you can get an s13 intake cam sprocket and swap it out. If it goes away, there's your problem. If not, next step is to disable the solenoid to see if it disappears. I know it's kind of alot of work, but eh, gotta figure it out. If you just disconnect the solenoid, the sprocket won't see oil pressure i do believe.

[ArcherV20]

The exhaust mani -> turbocharger gasket...and now THIS! I get all the fun jobs don't I!

[nzmoman]

its not that bad...

its only about two or three hours to swap test and reswap and you will get the chance to give a look around in the head...just get some buddies over and have a little cookout....it always makes the time go faster.