Head scratcher.....12v 520i clankey question...

[silverback mike]

Hi folks,
Bit confused here, there's a funny noise coming from the snotter.
It's a G reg 52Oi. I have just put a new idle control valve, and since I put it on there is a metallic clanking from the front top ish bit of the engine. I'm sure it isn't from under the rocker cover, more near the fan area. Dave (numbnuts) reckons it may be the tensioner or water pump.

Prior to taking the front covers off, is there something that can drop off and rattle around. It's a sound that only manifests itself at about 1500 rpm and literally sounds like a ballbearing rattling round in a saucepan, below and above those revs it isn't there.

Odd noise indeed....clank clank brrr rattle rattle

[fixedwheelnut]

Can you not see anything hitting the fan ?
Check the alternator pulley it could be knocking the casing, have you moved the airbox? poss not relocated properly, or check the water pump bearing they can break up and still not leak coolant on M20 engines.

[silverback mike]

Thanks FWN
Turns out it was the cambelt slapping it's way around on everything. All sorted now.