Does this sound like the engine needs to be timed or does it sound like improperly gapped plugs? I'm going with timing though.

http://yourlisten.com/channel/content/16979081/Engine_Sound

Horrible rod knock or other serious mechanical failure. I mean it's poor quality sound and all but it sounds like something banging around.

__________________
Current:
2021 Charger Scat Pack Widebody "Sinabee"
2018 Durango R/T

Previous:
1972 280SE 4.5
2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited "Hefe", 1992 Jeep Cherokee Laredo "Jeepy", 2006 Charger R/T "Hemi"
1999 Chrysler 300M - RIP @ 221k

Is the car running? It sounds like it is not starting. Is that correct?

What year, make , model , engine , miles. . . If you want help you need to provide details.

I didn't listen to the audio but, with a modern ignition system plug gap is nearly irelevent and in any case won't make noise.

Modern cars have non adjustable ignition timing.

you can buy low mileage engine for $999 shipping included

__________________
1999 w140, quit voting to old, and to old to fight, a god damned veteran

Sounds like a rod bearing went out as it is a harder knock in one are of the crank rotation. IF it is a rod it would be loudest where it goes from pulling down to pushing up in about a 10 degree arc.
Have you pulled the pan off yet?

Obviously this depends on what engine it is as a W126 V8 engine has to come out to look at any rods other than #1, #2, & #5 as the upper pan that conceals the others will not come off with the engine installed in the car.
jimm1009

Its a M104 engine per the name on the recording. That sounds quite bad....I bet the engine is done for....

__________________
-diesel is not just a fuel, its a way of life-
'15 GLK250 Bluetec 118k - mine - (OC-123,800)
'17 Metris(VITO!) - 37k - wifes (OC-41k)
'09 Sprinter 3500 Winnebago View - 62k (OC - 67k)
'13 ML350 Bluetec - 95k - dad's (OC-98k)
'01 SL500 - 103k(km) - dad's (OC-110,000km)
'16 E400 4matic Sedan - 148k - Brothers (OC-155k)