This is an update to this post I made a couple of weeks ago. https://www.rav4world.com/threads/timing-chain-rattle-or-is-it.299633/ It's had a ton of reads, but no responses. I think that is probably due to the way I asked the question. I am re-posting here with an update as to what I have found.
I have a 2010 RAV4 Sport, with the 4 cylinder 2ar-fe engine. 220K miles.
Quick recap (see the above link if you want more detail) : I have the classic 2ar-fe rattle upon cold-start. I had two mechanics tell me it was timing chain rattle. I had my mechanic replace the timing chain, tensioner, guides, etc. The chain was stretched and tensioner was not functioning properly and the guides worn. However, the noise did not go away and last 3 to 4 seconds now, as opposed to to 1 to 2 seconds before.
My mechanic says it's probably the vvti cam shaft gear, and that while it's annoying, it will not cause harm. He would basically have to take the timing cover off, just like he did for the timing chain replacement, for pretty much the same cost.
I've checked gas mileage, and it's right around 19-20 mpg (city), pretty much where it's always been.
I had to save up for several months to do this, and had other family vehicle repairs this month as well. I'm pretty much out of money at this point, and it would take me several months again to save up to do this. I'm consoling myself with knowing the timing chain, etc had to be replaced anyway. I do kind of wish I had known about the vvti cam gears. But oh well...
I've found two threads in which it was suggested that this rattle is harmless. And one which says it could be catastrophic.
Is there anyone knowledgeable here who can tell me how serious this is?
Thanks for any help you can give.
I have a 2010 RAV4 Sport, with the 4 cylinder 2ar-fe engine. 220K miles.
Quick recap (see the above link if you want more detail) : I have the classic 2ar-fe rattle upon cold-start. I had two mechanics tell me it was timing chain rattle. I had my mechanic replace the timing chain, tensioner, guides, etc. The chain was stretched and tensioner was not functioning properly and the guides worn. However, the noise did not go away and last 3 to 4 seconds now, as opposed to to 1 to 2 seconds before.
My mechanic says it's probably the vvti cam shaft gear, and that while it's annoying, it will not cause harm. He would basically have to take the timing cover off, just like he did for the timing chain replacement, for pretty much the same cost.
I've checked gas mileage, and it's right around 19-20 mpg (city), pretty much where it's always been.
I had to save up for several months to do this, and had other family vehicle repairs this month as well. I'm pretty much out of money at this point, and it would take me several months again to save up to do this. I'm consoling myself with knowing the timing chain, etc had to be replaced anyway. I do kind of wish I had known about the vvti cam gears. But oh well...
I've found two threads in which it was suggested that this rattle is harmless. And one which says it could be catastrophic.
Is there anyone knowledgeable here who can tell me how serious this is?
Thanks for any help you can give.
