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Old September 8th 05, 08:02 PM
N8N
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Tokay wrote:
> Over the past few weeks, my Saturn SL2 has been developing an exhaust
> noise.....it's kind of a rattly, poppy kind sound. It only occurs
> under load (up hills, accelerating from a stop, and similar).
>
>
> I'll level with you....I'm OK with a wrench, but I know nothing about
> diagnosing cars based on their exhaust sound. I got under it and
> looked for an exhaust leak, but there was none I can find, and I'd
> think that the sound would occur more often if it was......
>
> My wife was describing the problem to her father (a mechanic) and he
> suggested that the the lifters needed adjusting. I can kind of believe
> that, but there's no clatter from the engine compartment, like I would
> expect. I've noticed no decrease in performance, or mileage. It's also
> a sight-unseen kind of a diagnosis, which I never completely trust.
>
> Also, this car has hydraulic lifters, which I know almost nothing
> about. I understand the principles behind how they work, but that's
> about it. I'm guessing "Lifters need adjustment" for hydraulic lifters
> translates into "lifters are sticky" but I just don't know....
>
> hell, that might not even BE the problem.
>
>
> So, any advice on this issue will be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks for your time.


How many miles, and when was the last time it got a tuneup? Spark
breaks down most easily under heavy load.

nate

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