Hi everyone,

I have a 2001 S2000 (I've had since new), with 105K miles, and it has what I think is a new problem I noticed recently.

On startup, it often (maybe 2 out of 10 startups) makes a valve-clatter noise for about 1 second. (FWIW I use mobil 1 10w30 and it's hot here in new england lately).

I want to understand what the problem is, and if there is some kind of fix for it, what is it? Can aftermarket products help? (ie, slick-50 or other product)

Also, should I worry about it?

I just got a new top for the car, and it's basically like new, so I don't want to be doing any damage to the engine.

Thanks for any help!

Steve

 

I expect it is the timing chain rattling until the tensioner gets oil pressure. Fairly common. Solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner.

 

Can anything be damaged by the problem? Or is it something to fix if it bothers me?

Steve

 

Not sure what damage can occur but it is little work to remedy it.

 

Interesting.

I had major service done just 15000 miles ago, and wonder if they did this then.

Hmm....

Steve

 

If the timing chain autotensioner is bad and gets worse to the point it allows your timing chain to jump time there will be damage......expensive damage. You should fix it now before it gets worse...
Simple fix...do a search..there is a how-to in here somewhere...
The part is just a little over $100 last I checked. 10 minute job if you take your time.

 

Found it.... page 2
https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.ph...c=320897&st=25

 

WOW - thanks for everything folks!

I'm almost positive that the valve tensioner is it.

This is great - I feel better now knowing that 1) I'm not the only one with this, and 2) it's an easy fix!


Thanks everyone!

Steve