mk2 problems

[bowds]

hi guys used to have a mk3 but i've recently bought a 1.8 mk2 golf gl for £250,  it ran really well for a month or so but has recently developed some problems an was wondering if anyone could let me know what it sounds like...
ok the main problem is as follows, when i first start the car up its fine, but once it gets up to tempreture, usually after about 15 or so minutes there starts to be a loud tapping noise, but its only when pressing on the throttle, when off the throttle theres no noise... also when this happens the car is burning oil...lots of smoke coming from the engine..any ideas what this could be?

second problem is when starting up...the car starts up then the revs immediatly drop an car stops..its like the chokes (webber) is permantently pushed in...but altering the choke lever has no effect untill the car is fully warmed up....is this likely to be linked with the first problem?

any helps appreciated, many thanks

[xzoex]

Shot in the dark... could it be ur fule mix ?

Zoe x

[DarnPB]

If you have a tapping noise along with burning oil, it does not sound good. Can you tell if the noise is at engine speed or half engine speed? Is the noise more of a knock or heavy tapping noise rather than just tapping?
If the noise is half engine speed, then your problem could be two-fold. The hydraulic tappets, if fitted, are getting very tired and burning oil could be a piston problem.
If noise is at engine speed, then definately, I would say you have a piston problem.
I would like to suspect valve guide seals as this is a cheeper fix, but your symptoms indicate otherwise.
Try changing the oil, for a cheap brand for fault finding sake, and see what happens. If symptoms disapear, well you are lucky. Change oil again for a decent quality one.

[bowds]

yeah the tapping starts of queit but gets very heavy if i continue to drive....did a bit of research and thought it might be pistons, an as u've mentioned this it sounds more an more likely...any idea if this is an expensive fix?
many thanks for ur time

[takethefifth]

Could it be pinking? And getting worse as the engine heats up?

Was wondering if it might be linked to the carb problem and also if it is mechanical why doesn't it tap when cold. 

Another shot in the dark for you anyway. My gut feeling is the same as Mr pistonbroke's. 

[bowds]

yeah also a bit confused by having no problems when cold...no tapping at all until up to normal tempreture, think i might just have to take it int oa garage and get the mto have a look at it..hopefully its not too expensive an becomes not worth fixing, very enjoyable to drive

[DarnPB]

Take it to a garage and do a compression check first.