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rattling when in 1st gear at low RPM

9

97vulcan

CEG'er
Joined
May 22, 2007
Messages
456
Location
Wisconsin
So I've been hearing a low rattling noise coming from my car when I am at a stop and start off in 1st. Does anyone know what this could be? I am thinking a heat shield, but IDK. Could it be the chain tensioners or guides? I hope its nothing. It seems to go away as the RPM's increase.

Thanks,

Adam
 
If it the heat shield, you should be able to figure it out easily. Drive on top of ramps, crawl under and tap the heat shield on the muffler. You will hear the same sound if it is the heat shield.
 
Check the catalytic converter shields, they commonly become loose, secure with long hose clamps (I believe there is a heat shield clamp kit at Advance Auto).
 
FavoriteMystaque said:
Check the catalytic converter shields, they commonly become loose, secure with long hose clamps (I believe there is a heat shield clamp kit at Advance Auto).
Click to expand...
Victor 801, about $12. There is also another similar one, maybe Victor 813.
 
Clutch chatter is the term used when you don't get a smooth engagement of the clutch when you take your foot off the pedal. It is not normal with an OEM clutch. Since the clutch is hydraulic, you probably won't feel a vibration on your foot as you would with mechanically operated clutches. It would be most apparent either in first or reverse when taking off from a stop. It may not be audible and if there is a noise, it's probably something else "rattling" as a result of the shaking of the drive train. You need to determine if this is really a "rattle", a "chatter", or if it's something else. FWIW, trouble shooting noises in Internet land is virtually impossible. Someone else should hear it in person or maybe get a sound clip or something. Have you changed the MTX fluid yet?
Karl
 
I think I have the same issue that you have. At least you describe it exactly as I would my issue. If it is the same, its not chatter from the clutch. Unless like others say, you have an aftermarket clutch. The sound I am getting sounds like a loose shield. Which if you can get the rpm's low enough in 2/3/4/5th gears, to get the same type of vibration, you will hear it then also.
 
diviniti,

That is the noise I am talking about. When the RPM's are low enough I hear it, I guess it dosen't matter what gear I am in. I have not changed the trans fluid but I will. Is Redline MTX the best fluid to use?

Thanks,
Adam
 
97vulcan said:
diviniti,

That is the noise I am talking about. When the RPM's are low enough I hear it, I guess it dosen't matter what gear I am in. I have not changed the trans fluid but I will. Is Redline MTX the best fluid to use?

Thanks,
Adam
Click to expand...
Use the Ford fluid. At least this time.

Diviniti: What you are probably hearing is the noise that's made when too big a load is put on the drivetrain at too low the rpms of the engine. In other words, short shifting. This happens to any car with some wear on the drivetrain. Try not to do this as it's hard on the engine bearings and most likely the MTX as well. I suppose it could also be pinging from the engine but as I stated before, it's almost, if not totally, impossible for someone to diagnose a noise when they can't hear it for themselves.
Karl
 
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