rattle on startup 300e
 

'88 300e

on cold startup, something rattles very breifly from the engine area. warm engine is fine on startup

A search of archived questions seems to focus on timing chain guide. Is this a sound basis for examination?

Were the archives focusing more on the V-8 engines? The "Rattle of Death" can indicate a stretched chain in the bigger engines, but I think the timing chain in the M103 is fairly short and doesn't bend around everywhere. It seems like an unlikely source to me.

Have someone else start it with the hood open so that you can try to isolate the area that it's coming from.

check the belt tensioner shock...they tend to rattle after age and wear.

I am with Dr Brandini on this one!
 

Cheap replacement.:D

Rattling on startup of 88 300E
 

Hi,
It has been my own experience with my 86 300E that especially when cold, it will rattle briefly. This is common with overhead cam engines especially. Once the oil is pumped up to the valve train the problem goes away. I wouldn't worry about it unless it continues for more than say, 10 or 15 seconds.

Al

"Is this a sound basis for examination?"

It sure is. I also need to have mine done soon.

You may want to check out this thread...
 

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=20032&highlight=chain+rattle

I replaced the oil filter check valve on my 400E and it eliminated the cold start rattle issue.

RM92400E

Same sound I think
 

Hi all,

I have the same type sound. I have a 1992 300e 2.6 at startup I get what sounds like a rapping from the motor. Increases or decreases with the speed of the engine. Sounds like valve train. I am going through about a quart of oil every 700 miles or so.

Could the rap be associated with a warn valve guide or seal??

Thanks,
Joel

PS> I have seen other posts on the site stating for some models it's normal to have a rap at start up.