1.8 20v top end rattle

[siavant]

hi please help,
i have a 1.8 20v a4 avant non turbo which has developed a top end rattle on idle,is this common?i heard a few things like oil pump pick up and cam chain tensioner failure, which one is more likely?? ive tried running a engine oil flush through which made it better but the fault is still there any ideas???

[Crasher]

Get an oil pressure test done.

[stuart]

I agree with Crasher, get the oil pressure tested I belive these engines, do suffer from oil pump problems, which woul make it rattle due to oil starvation.

[siavant]

thanks for the reply, after a bit of investigation you'r right oil pressure not cam chain tensioner not down to the pump though but the pick up pipe.the gauze gets blocked up with oil resedue.it dont take much to start lowering the oil pressure especially on idle when the oil is hot and thinner, and its a damm site cheaper than a cam chain tensioner to fit, but it is a bit difficult to get the sump off not for the faint hearted, hope this helps.

[a8 tech]

ALSO FIT THE MODIFIED LARGER OIL FILTER FROM VW/AUDI DEALER.This allows more oil to reach the chain tensioner quicker from cold start.Drop the subframe to remove the sump and lift engine to allow easy removal of the sump.Replace all removed subframe bolts as they are streatch bolts.

[siavant]

thanks for that will do..

[scots1_2000]

Unfortunately....i had same problem & was a bit too late for me when it decided to seize at edinburgh on Tueday nite...... managed to free engine off again by rolling it down a very steep hill so hopefully.....i might get off with doing main end bearings...but if anyone can advise as to if this will not be the case id welcome any info or experience on this.
cheers

[Crasher]

The cam bearings will be toast.

[tyrant]

I've had my a4 1.8t for 8 weeks and have just had to replace the oil pump.
I noticed it sounded 'tappety' when getting warm in traffic but then the warning light came on below 2000rpm.
Car was immediately booked in (the mechanic didn't even have to be told what car..just said ''1.8t by any chance madam?'' )
4 hours and £400 lighter..could of been worse.