2007 2L Zetec Engine Rattle

XBCoupeNZ · 02-03-2011, 10:23 AM

Hi guys

Have got a 2L 5 speed Zetec Focus (07) and the engine rattles when accelerating. Not all the time though. I suspect it's a timing chain/belt tensioner, but don't know these engines at all really, so it's an educated guess.

When it makes the sound, it sounds like a mid 80's diesel engine rattle. Usually under load, but not even heavy load, and not all the time. 4th gear at about 43kph and try and power up to 50kph makes the noise - not a heavy load really.

Am I accurate? And is this an invloved job to repair/replace the tensioner?

Any help appreciated.

Neale · 03-03-2011, 07:32 PM

I wouldnt be driving the car in 4th at 40kph. It probably doesnt have enough revs, the 2L hasnt got the tourqe of the bigger cars & the motor is probably labouring.

When to shift one thing I had to re-learn comming from a falcon to a smaller car. Now I usually change between 2,500 & 3,000 RPM. If you change between 1,000 & 2,000 in some conditions the car can struggle.

Try driving around in third at that speed instead & see if it makes a difference. Then if you still have a problem get it checked out.

What RPM does everyone else change at?

casabonka · 03-03-2011, 09:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Neale

What RPM does everyone else change at?

Where's it red line :P

I think your on the money that its revs are too low - try take off from 2nd or 3rd and it will prob sound the same.

Twinpiston · 03-03-2011, 11:10 PM

May also be pinging, try using 95 or 98 in the next couple of tanks and see if it still does it as well!

XBCoupeNZ · 04-03-2011, 06:17 AM

Cheers for the help guys.

After I posted this I read through some older threads and found one about someone having hard gear changes from 1st to 2nd. He was advised to shift around 2500rpm - so I thought I try this as well.

Neale is right on the money I think. Changing gear around 2000rpm makes the engine work too hard. 2500rpm or a bit higher seems to make it work fine.

Seems I have to get used to it - I've only had it a couple of weeks, and it's quite a bit different to what I've driven previously. Obviously a motor that likes the revs, and not a low down grunter eh.

Thanks for the replies - much appreciated

XBCoupeNZ · 04-03-2011, 11:10 AM

Although - it does it when the engine is warm (operating temp) and I rev it in neutral from idle.

It shouldn't do it then as far as I know.