rattle on '86 carrera when engine is cold

[phid75]

I know this subject has been discussed a few times, but I still need your advice on this :

since a few weeks, when I cold start my '86 carrera 120k miles, there is a rattling sound at idle for a few minutes. The noise disappears when the engine gets warm.

Reading from similar posts, I suspect a worn chain tensioner, although most of the posts I've read speak of a quite heavy rattle, lasting only a few seconds, whereas mine is not louder than loose valves, and lasts for a few minutes.

I'll try to identify the location of the noise on the chain covers next weekend. In between, do you confirm this diagnosis, or do you have any other clue ?

[tab tanner]

Check the alternator ? I just had one do the same thing as yours, turns out it was the alternator making the noise. The owner found out how bad it was on the way to Tweeks fun fest, when the car broke down 30mi from there. No big deal just swap it out for a rebuilt one

This is just a thought you might look at?????????