'02 Cavilier Exaust/something rattles when rains

[winsett]

Hi all.....

I'm actually a member of the 'Blazer' forums, but request help from you guys on behalf of my girlfriend.

She has a 2002 Cavalier (4cyl) that produces a very loud rattle on Accelleration and Decceleration. The rattle is also present when just cruising but not as loud.
Theres a catch though. IT ONLY HAPPENS WHEN RAINING!

It is definitely coming from the exhaust and when she called Chevy, they said that "normal". Now I know 'normal' sounds of vehicles and hers sounds like somethings going to vibrate right off!

I'm hoping one of you may have some feedback on what I may look for or replace, or at least walk into the dealership and tear a strip of the moron to whom 'rattling cars' is normal. I think they are just stiffing her on her warranty as her lease is up soon.

Your help and expertise is greatly appreciated!

[vamc]

Well it could be the catalitic converter. it could be rusted inside. just a thought. shake the muffler and try to make the whole pipe move and listen to the noice and listen where it is comming from.

[deadBird]

Probably just a muffler hanger. Make sure the entire exhaust (from the engine to the muffler) does wiggle.

[vamc]

deadBird-that as well is quite possable. Just work your way down the line and listen.

[Nitrous_Boy]

cat no it's titanum or something like that on the inside. the shield though are very very likely. Try around the muffler and around the cat. also the hangers have a rubber piece on them. when you see it you'll know what i am talking about. for some reason it just came to me to check that. don't know why. but get yourself a hose and craw under there

[gonzales7727]

simple, same thing happened to me, it was loose and i had it rewelded.

[winsett]

Hi all...thanks for all the input.

Found the cause of the rattling to be the Cat shield resting against the body and used a screwdriver to simply pry the sheet metal away from the body to create a gap and havent had a problem since.

Thanks again!