Audi B7 2.0 tdi rattling problem

[Autologix]

Hi, my B7 tdi has a very loud rattle, like a tapety noise when running at idle. The noise is constant and doesn't fade or get louder during hot or cold. Otherwise It drives totally fine with no problems at all.
It's a CVT model and ive just had a new flywheel fitted which has rectified a jerky start up, but still the engine rattle remains.

I feared the oil pump maybe playing up which i know is exp, but ive had no oil pressure warning lights and ive covered over 3000 miles and the noise hasnt gotten worse or better. My local VW specialists have mentioned it could be the AC pump, but when i press the Econ button, theirs no difference in the noise. they also mentioned it could be the EGR valve - which doesnt make much sense to me. Is it worth me cleaning out the EGR as a process of emilination?

Im at a loss here and dont want to guess before i start spending £££'s. Anyone here had similar problems or can point me in the right direction?????

[Alan02]

I would be inclined to check the Oil Pump drive if you cant pin-point the rattle down to a specific area eg. top end, Air-con pump. No Oil light just means the pressure is above around 1 Bar. There could be issues with theoil pump drive being worn.

[Autologix]

Alan, thanks for the reply and advise. Im giving the car to my local audi specialists this week for them to strip the bottom end and inspect the pump. Just out of interest is the pump drive located on the pump itself? Ive managed to source a 2nd hand pump for £250 from a later model with the cog rather than chain which im told is compatible with mine

[Alan02]

If you google Audi Oil pump , you`ll see the complete unit and balancer shafts etc. It will give you an idea what it actually comprises of.