If a timing chain rattle happens every so often on cold starts, is this something that can be fixed? Is it "normal" for a chain driven engine? I have a 2000 GXE with 73,000.

 

It is normal for some engines with chain-driven cams, not all engines with chain-driven cams....

BMWs dont do this, Porsches dont do this, sadly, VQs do this.

Nothing you can do about this except that it is said to be minimized if you use OEM oil filters which have an valve that minimizes drainage from the oil galleries located in the higher parts of the engine. And I'm only repeating this, dont know it from first-hand experience.

 

IIRC, there is a TSB out for this - i know it applies to a lot of 2k2's, but unsure if 2k's are covered by it.

From what i remember, it's not the timing chain that's making the rattle but something else.

 

I've heard it can be normal, but also what some people think is the rattle is in fact the starter motor needing to be re-packed with grease. Check out www.motorvate.ca for an example of how to do this.

My 2k, when cold, makes a grinding sound when I start it. It sounds almost exactly like the sound you hear when you try to start a car that's already started. It makes this sound right after the engine starts and peaks initially up to about 2k. It's really quick, and then the sound isn't there. Hasn't done it all summer, but rather only when it's cold ambient temperature AND the car is cold.

BTW I use an OEM filter and mobil1 5w-30.

 

I believe the TSB calls for replace a gear in one or both VTC units.