89 towncar engine/manifold noise.

My GF has an 89 Towncar(5.0L i believe) that just recently began making a pretty loud rattle noise. It makes the noise when idle and driving....the pitch/volume seems to be constant at all speeds/RPMs. I used a tube to try to locate the sound. It seems to be coming from in/around the intake manifold.

any suggestions of a good place to start with finding this sound?

thanks alot

-DH

Upon closer inspection it appears to be coming from the starter/solenoid. Though i can start the car and then disconnect the starter and it still continues to make the noise. I can feel the vibrations very strongly when i put my hand on the solenoid.

The sound is akin to what you'd hear if you put about 7 pebbles in tin can and shook it around a bunch.

still not sure exactly what is causing this?

any ideas?

thanks

-Prim