Engine noise when cold

[Englishman]

Anyone experienced a slapping type noise when starting and idling (~800rpm) from stone cold? Also seems to be worse if the oil level is anything other than brim full? Holding the engine over ~1200rpm or once slightly warm the noise disappears.

[shep1001]

Mine makes this noise too. Its not gone bang! yet so I guess its not too much of a problem. Piston slap maybe or the timing chains?

[BGB autosport]

I think most have alittle piston slap. Im not sure but would hope the pistons are forged, often due to the materials alloyed together they have a higher expansion rate than normal pistons. When they get hot the expand more hence, more clearance when cold to give the required clearance when hot.

[Buffoon]

Englishman said:

Anyone experienced a slapping type noise when starting and idling (~800rpm) from stone cold? Also seems to be worse if the oil level is anything other than brim full? Holding the engine over ~1200rpm or once slightly warm the noise disappears.

Mines the same, but the more you listen the more you hear. Mine does not clear until around 2000rpm, and needs to be fully warmed up. Pretty sure piston slap caused by close fitting rings.

[Englishman]

Glad to know I'm not alone - but I've only noticed the noise in the 4th year of ownership so maybe something in wearing?

[TVR Dan]

I had the same problem when i got my T350. I took it to a garage (TrackvRoad - Very Good BTW)

Turns out my engine was in good condition.

I must admit some days i hear it more than others? (mostly when cold and with window down?)

Speed six engines are know for there poor oil flow...?

I have had no problems since it being in the garage.
I think if it is warmed up correctly and looked after (Services, Maintenece, Check oil and water etc...) I think it should be fine?
If you really are worried best thin to do is get it in for a service and if it is a good garage they'll let you know anything thats on its way out or needs attention?

Hope Everything goes well

Dan

[tail slide]

BGB autosport said:

I think most have alittle piston slap. Im not sure but would hope the pistons are forged, often due to the materials alloyed together they have a higher expansion rate than normal pistons. When they get hot the expand more hence, more clearance when cold to give the required clearance when hot.

Not forged as standard, though mine are and are a little noisier as you suggest they would be.

For info on warming up, the experienced Speed 6 engine builders suggest you don't let them idle! That's when there's max load on the valvetrain components (perhaps surprisingly) and it will warm up only slowly which is not good for any of it.

So either drive away steadily straight away, mostly at 2-3k rpm for a few mins, then steadily increasing rpm (as per TVR handbook) or if you have to wait, keep it at 2000-3000rpm+ to circulate oil promptly and warm up quickly with least load on the components, as with race engines.

Englishman - does sound like you've got very slight piston slap, the normal advice is that it's ok if it goes when warm. The oil level aspect is curious though. Mine normally has a tubular heater under it, if I start it without it certainly rattles more for the first minute - so maybe yours will be back to 'quiet' running when Spring arrives!

Edited by tail slide on Thursday 5th March 21:09

[Englishman]

I always drive off pretty soon after starting (just close the garage) and the noise is only there when it's really cold in the morning such as this week. The oil level definitely affects it though. No noise at all once oil temperature gets to about 10C. I'll get the TVR Centre to check when it's next in for a service, but I guess it is probably a case of 'they all do that sir' given the comments.

[tail slide]

Englishman said:

I always drive off pretty soon after starting (just close the garage) and the noise is only there when it's really cold in the morning such as this week. The oil level definitely affects it though. No noise at all once oil temperature gets to about 10C. .......

in that case TADTS as you say, and there are no probs.