[Raver157]

Hi guys, just bought my '92 S13 coupe and everything's fine except I keep hearing this funny scratching sound when the engine's in idle. The guy I bought it from says that its the "fan-clutch" or somethin and its normal. He said even if you bought the car brand new it would have that sound. Hmm I wasnt so sure but do you guys have the same experience? This is a completely stock KA24DE motor. I did do a search but didnt find anything, thanks for your time.

 

[RPS13 SE]

I've never heard any funny scratching noise, but maybe thats cuz my belt was always whining.

 

[Demoniak]

hmm doesnt sound like a "stock" sound to me, sounds like u might have a few things worn in ur engine bay.. next time u do a engine service check ur alternator too..

 

[k2fender]

It kind of sounds like the fan is rubbing against something. Open up the hood and check things out with the car on. Watch your hands though.

 

[Demoniak]

Always consult your dealer(mechanic), but found on several cars, there is a problem in the variable valve timing actuator and inlet cam sprocket, that causes this noise. Nissan have a fix for it, and the job is done within a day.

So what causes it? It's the variable valve timing actuator. This is a hydraulic piston which moves the inlet cam sprocket slightly. The problem is that when you start the engine, oil pressure does not come up fast enough to hold the actuator firmly in place, so it rattles. Because this assembly is mounted on the cylinder head, it seems to reverberate and amplify the noise.
If you have done a check on the actuator check your oil pressure sensor is working.

 

[Raver157]

thanks a bunch

Hey thanks a lot man, I'll hafta go check it out with the dealer then. I remember the guy who sold it to me mentioned something like that and that they had already gotten it fixed. I guess not, thanks a lot.