engine rattle

[starskee]

hi wonder if anyone can get there heads around this one
i have a mk4 golf 1.4se 2001 95k and the engine makes a rattling/tapping noise i have had this looked at on many occasions by various mechanics
the first guy said it was the tappets and would require a new set of hydraulic tappets £800
2nd guy said waterpump was rattlin i have had this changed still not solved it
vw mechanic says its piston slap and requires a new engine
has anyone else had this with a mk4 golf as i need to sort it but am unsure what to do
would appreciate any help thanks

[Captain Answer]

Does it rattle at any particular times ie when cold? warm? in a certain gear or rev range or is it more constant? Doe the engine still perform properly and is the car fully serviced?

[starskee]

it does it when idling, cold or warm has been regularly serviced
the only time it goes away is when going over 50mph

[belfastmark]

Hey Starskee,
I am having much the same problem with my 1.6 16v petrol 2001 50,000mls.
A VW tech I know suggestd to me that it may be down to the fuel I am using, not sure why though.
Sorry I cant be of any more help !!

Mark.