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MG MGF Technical - Clicking noise coming from engine

Hi all, When I started the engine earlier there was a clicking noise coming from the engine like ticker tape - which got louder when I accelerated - does anyone know what this could be and if it is serious ?
Many thanks. Sarah
Sarah Edwards

If the exhaust manifold gasket has sprung a leak, it makes a fast chuff-chuff-chuff noise which will get louder as the accelerator is pressed harder, and will rise in pitch/frequency. Leaks can also occur lower down the exhaust pipe, where the manifold meets the downpipe. A split in the exhaust can make the same type of noise.

If you're near Bristol, Mark at MJN Motors on Brislington Trading Estate will be able to diagnose it for you, without you having to worry about venturing into a KwikFit and coming out bankrupt...
bandit

Could also be a hydraulic valve tappet. I get this sometimes when the car has sat for a long time, and it can take some time before it unsticks and goes quiet again.
Mike Cunningham

Could also be your alternator belt ready to give up the ghost. Get this checked, because if it breaks it could end up fouling your timing belt and cause major damage.
David Clelland

Hi Sarah,

I agree with the chaps - it could be any of the above! The big limitation of the internet forum when it comes to diagnosing noises is that we can't hear it for ourselves!

Like the others, from the description so far, it made me think of leaking exhaust manifolds and sticky hydraulic tappets.

The former, as Bandit says, is a lower pitch 'phut-phut' noise, and you may notice that your engine is down a little bit on power - it can steal a comfortable 10-15bhp as I discovered on one of my forays to a rolling road!

The latter is higher pitch, more metallic in quality. It may pass once the engine is up to temperature - and if this is the case, check the oil level ASAP. Noisy tappets are an indication that the oil level is low and needs topping up! At least this is a quick fix.

And as DC says, there are plenty of other causes of odd engine bay noises - all are worth investigating as you are doing! Do let us know what it turns out to be :o)
Rob Bell

Thanks for your comments. I topped up the oil and the noise seems to have stopped, but she's booked in for a service on Monday so I guess I'll find out then if its anything more sinister.
Sarah Edwards

This thread was discussed between 04/06/2010 and 09/06/2010

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