Timing chain rattle
 

Hi All
My 2000 model Boxster S manual with 205,000km has a timing chain rattle on start-up.
The effect was minimized when I was recommended to use Ravenol 10W50 HVE which virtually eliminated the problem.
At the last service, the garage filled up with Motul 10W40, and the problem came back.
However, if I let the oil level drop by 400ml, the rattle virtually disappears!
Any suggestions why this is happening and is it a common problem?
I live in Cape Town RSA so no cold weather issues here.

Timing chain rattle can be a function of weak chain tensioners (wearing out or not getting the proper oil pressure) or a worn-out chain (one that cannot be tensioned enough). I don't think oil type or oil level is going to solve this one for you long-term. The timing chain and tensioners system needs to be examined.

Do you have any other drivability issues? Are there any fault codes?

Are you sure that it's not just the valve lifters prior to them filling up with oil?

Correct, likely lifters.

have you had the camshaft deviation values read out with a scan tool?

Cheers

My 2001 boxster s has made that rattle since I bought it in 2011 with 64,000 km. on it. 10 years later at 105,000 km I have quit worrying about it. Foolishly maybe but heck I still have the original IMS bearing too! The car runs like a top!

im in the og ims club too, but my 00 986S only has 76000 miles.

97 986 here...
Previous owner was scared and replaced the IMS. But hey, I got a new clutch out of his fear... so all is well.

Mine definitely makes more noise when I wake her from hibernation than when we are on an ice cream run in the summer.

YMMV.

61K miles.