Engine Rattle??

[Chris-E85]

Hi all, since joining a few weeks ago you have all been incredibly helpful in pointing me in the right direction in getting my Zed running better. Thank you.
But sadly i need your advice once again..

Starting with the key info an 04 E85 3.0l Z4 with about 115k on her.
Over the last few weeks I've noticed a light rattle coming from the engine. Audible when at idle and when driving it can be heard in the cabin.

At first i thought it sounded like something rattling against a heatshield as it is a light tinny rattle but listening with the bonnet up its definitely coming from the top of the engine.

Help??

 

[firebobby]

DISA valve ??
Have you had the bonnet up to see if you can pin point the noise

 

[Chris-E85]

I have but only at idle. Didn't have anyone there to add any revs.
It sounds to be coming from the top of the manifold, but hard to pinpoint exactly.
Ive taken off the little cover panel at the top to ensure nothing was trapped underneath. (Who knows.. ive only had the car a few months and keep finding new bits of history as i fix bits) but no dice.
So its definitely something mechanical.

 

[Chris_D]

Concur with Fred, for once. lol

Get your DISA off asap and inspect for looseness of the flap pin.
If any bits from the DISA get sucked into ur topend it could be a big headache, if not catastrophic.
It could also be VANOS chain guides or seals.

 

[Chris-E85]

Until half an hour ago I knew nothing of DISA .. now its the stuff of nightmares.
It sounds a lot like its getting stuck open (based on other forum posts) and im getting a rattling pin (scary stuff)
Will be tearing it out after work tomorrow.

 

[Chris_D]

You could try unplugging it when idling (not driving) to see if the rattle disappears.
It might throw a few codes in the process, so make sure you have a code reader/clearer device. But at least it may help to investigate/cancel-out possible causes.
Don't let it panic you - if it is the DISA don't drive it until you have either replaced or repaired it.
There are some good repair kits floating around and I forget the name now but there's also one with a metal replacement flap and better pin.

Someone will chip in with the name at some point...
good luck

 

[firebobby]

Just whip it out and have a look. where are you in the country as there are a few members who could do the job for you if you're not good with the spanners.

 

[firebobby]

Any news on what you found ?