Click / Flap Noise

[el salsero]

I own a beater 1990 Toyota 4x4 - 22-re engine, number of miles... lets just say, ALOT!

This noise just started up about a few months ago. It's kind of a flapping / clicking noise. It sounds like it comes from the front of the engine. It's not consistent, but it will make the noise constantly. I thought maybe something is caught in a belt, or maybe a rusted pully, or.... I drove it all winter with the damn click/flap and I had no problems, but I'm wondering if I should worry.

Thank you in advance.

[KimMG]

Check to make sure nothing is stuck in the radiator.
Make sure all engine accessories are secure (ie. alternator mounting bolts).
Check the fan bearings.
Check the grill and other body parts to make sure they are secure.
Check air intake.
Check the timing chain.

[el salsero]

Click / flap noise happened to be the driver side timing chain guide breaking and the clicking noise was the timing chain banging up against the timing chain cover.

I've since took procedures to remove the cover, replaced the p.o.s. plastic guides with steel guides from

http://www.doaracingengines.com/page13/page13.html

Problem solved.