Engine Noise

[Kent McLean]

Max Hoepli wrote:
> Some people have remarked if I drive a diesel, I have a 
> 1986 Audi 5000 Turbo Quattro. What would cause the noise?

A couple of things come to mind.

If the noise is a fast tick-tick-tick, my guess would be noisy
lifters. If caused by sludge, you may be able to clean things
with an engine-flush-in-a-can, then change the oil to a good
synthetic. If that doesn't help, replacing the lifters will
cure it (if the problem is the lifters). That's relatively
common and easy to repair.

If the noise is a louder clack-clack-clack or thunk-thunk,
it may be a rod or journal bearing. That won't be fixed
with an engine flush -- it requires an engine tear down.

If you have a mechanics stethoscope (or length of small
tubing), see if the noise if from the top of the engine
(lifters), or the bottom (bearings).

-- 
Kent McLean
'94 100 S Avant, "Moody"
'89 200 TQ, "Bad Puppy" up in smoke