rattle from head on run down - question

[Cory]

the car has developed a rattly head on comedown over the last couple of days. had a little listen through a screw driver (if that makes sence) and the rattle is quite distinct. also i removed the oil cap and there is a little white ish smoke coming out.

possible head gasket failure, with broken bits rattling loose inside?

im only just learning about engines so if its a stupid question/reasoning then go easy on me!

[Thom89]

What engine? and have you checked your oil level is correct, and a small amount of smoke is normal when removing the filler cap...

Thom

[Wayne]

Could be many things.

Broken valve spring maybe

[Sam]

Asking about 'an engine rattle' on here is the equivalent of typing into yahoo answers 'headache', you will think you have a brain tumour and require surgery in no time 

[danny_p]

Asking about 'an engine rattle' on here is the equivalent of typing into yahoo answers 'headache', you will think you have a brain tumour and require surgery in no time 

very true.    you'll get people like me posting pictures like this. 



that was a "tappet rattel" that developed   

[raferackstraw]

Asking about 'an engine rattle' on here is the equivalent of typing into yahoo answers 'headache', you will think you have a brain tumour and require surgery in no time 

only in your case caister the 'rattle' is usually a brain tumour 

[mwep201081]

Could be many things.

Broken valve spring maybe

Could be a loose heat shield

Check the simple stuff first before you go replacing valve springs...

[Wayne]

Asking about 'an engine rattle' on here is the equivalent of typing into yahoo answers 'headache', you will think you have a brain tumour and require surgery in no time 

lol 

[Sam]

Asking about 'an engine rattle' on here is the equivalent of typing into yahoo answers 'headache', you will think you have a brain tumour and require surgery in no time 

only in your case caister the 'rattle' is usually a brain tumour 

And thats why I love her 

[Cory]

thanks guys. tho i have found the culprit, and now feel like an utter plonker.

bottom alternator bolt was missing, hense the rattling noise . . .