Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

My GT is making an awful racket when I start it. It sounds like a spray can when you shake it. Kind of a rattle. It gets a little quieter after the engine idles down after I first crank it most times, but it's always there and I feel like it's getting louder. I'm able to work on this car but my wife and I need it to get to work so I need a pretty good idea of what to look for before I tear it down.
I think it could be valves or lifters or a spun crankshaft bearing. I honestly have no clue though and am purely going on prior experience with other types of vehicles. Please, don't let it be a bearing!!! Help!

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

Have you tried a new Motorcraft oil filter? If the anti-drain valve in the currentoilfilter is not working, you'll getstart up noise.

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

Well is it comin from the top or bottom end???

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

Well, I can hear it from both. Seems to be louder underneath. I've been using a heavier high mileage oil, too. The car uses a little oil. Like half a court every 3k. Had always been taught a heavier oil can help stop the consumption. Have also heard that's bad, too but went with what I know. Could that be a cause of my problem?

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

How many miles on the car? I was thinking loose timing chain?

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

127k. Only other problem is a sqeaky tensioner pully. Replaced twice but, starts again after a few days.

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

I thought the same thing about the timing change but if you here it fromthe bottom it could be a rod bearing or something I would stop driving the car though before you do more damage than what's already done!!!

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

You might want to get a mechanics stethescope (harbor freight) and see if you can pinpoint the noise location. A screwdriver will work as well

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

I'm just going to have to cross my fingers that the motor doesn't blow. This is the only car we have. We don't abuse it. I plan on working on it next weekend and trying a few different things from what I hear here. I'm still open for any other suggestions on what to look at.

RE: Sounds like a rattling spray can.
 

I'll definately try the screwdriver tomorrow and get a stethescope if that doesn't seem to work. Didn't even think of that. Thanks! If you think of anything else to check, let me know if you're in the forum.