98 Mustang 4.6 Auto

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!

mikemic

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

gizim_1132

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

98 Mustang 4.6 Auto

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?

cahtr6

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

98 Mustang 4.6 Auto

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

gizim_1132

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!!!

cahtr6

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

98 Mustang 4.6 Auto

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.

98 Mustang 4.6 Auto

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.