My 91 toyota ran great until today. First I had trouble getting it started. Then when it started there was a loud noise coming from the engine. It sounded like valve chatter. The oil pressure gauge shows normal pressure. I had this problem of noise several years ago, but it only lasted for about 5 seconds. Now it will not go away. The engine sounds like it's falling apart. I am afraid I will damage the engine if I drive the car. The car has 55000 miles and until now was an excellent car.
Thanks for any help.
art (akieffer)

Have you (or the previous owner) ever changed the timing belt? From what you describe, it sure sounds like it. Timing belts are supposed to be changed every 60,000 miles so your 55,000 sounds about right. Personally, I would NOT drive the car until it is changed. Assuming all your fluid levels are up, I would have it towed to a good repair shop for an analysis. Best of luck.

Thanks for your diagnosis Bossman. I have some new information on my car problem. It turns out that the noise went away completely after I let the car run for a few seconds at a time over the course of a day.
I have since talked to a Toyota mechanic. He thinks it was an oil lubrication problem. What caused this problem and wether it will return has not been determined.

akieffer