Rattles when cold

[Tinker]

When I first start up it has quite a loud clattery sound and is smokey - its been getting steadily worse over the last six months. This all dies down when it is completely warmed up but then the dreaded buzzer of doom sounds intermittently but especially after a climb. I think any major work on the engine is beyond my comfort zone. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. I live between Taunton and Exeter - does anyone know of any experts in the area?

[kevtherev]

When was it last serviced?
What oil was used?

Assuming it's a petrol engine....
Clattery engine is a sign of it not being used regularly.
If you are however, using it regular then try an oil change to 20w/50 mineral.

[Tinker]

Many thanks - well it was serviced end of last year. Not sure what oil was used. We don't use it very regularly - can sit for a few weeks, then a weekend away, that sort of useage. Any idea on the smoking when cold?
I'll change the oil and get out more! My concern is an upcoming 2 weeker to Brittany. Don't fancy spending hols dans le garage.....

[kevtherev]

Smoky starts (blue smoke) are usualy worn piston rings and / or valve guides.
Check the plug colour it might be only one cylinder
A busted ring would smoke all the time.

[kevtherev]

If you are worried put the 20/50 oil in and get the oil pressure checked with a wet gauge and have a compression check.
These values have tolerances...
That will be able to tell you if you have imminent engine death or just a tired one

[Tinker]

I'll do that, ta. I would be surprised (and not a little dissapointed) if it was about to snuff it as it has done a genuine 57k since new and history suggests it has been cared for (but you never know)....

[kevtherev]

At 57k there should be none, low milage vans are still about, but so are clockers
The smoke would suggest differently, or it has been abused, wrong grade oil, the scenarios are many

Do the engine numbers tally up with the log?
Is there a LOT of smoke?

[Tinker]

Sorry for the break - I was waiting for a moment when it had stopped raining to take a pic of the exhaust. It doesn't look that smokey in the photo so maybe I am overreacting. But certainly if it hasn't been used for a while its a lot worse Also checked engine number which matches the log so as far as I can tell the mileage is correct

[Ian Hulley]

Was the number DG-------- ?

What's it like after a 20 mile run ? What are the plugs like ?

Correct mineral oil plus a good run to get the juices flowing and it'll probably quieten down. The main lesson here is to use the thing.

Ian

[Tinker]

Yep its a DG number. After a run its fine - quietens down. The buzzer is always alarming but having read all the stuff on the site about it I realise I'm not alone there.
Thanks for all your help. Forecast looks half decent so the coast beckons....