It's Definitely Not Your Keys.
G.M. - I recently bought a 1969 Chevelle Malibu and re-did the front end, suspension and brakes. It has a 307 engine with 3-speed shift. A week ago it started making a noise like rattling keys when I got above 53 mph. I was wondering if anyone knows what might be wrong? It sounds as if it is coming from my engine.
G.W. - I had the same problem in my 1965 GTO. It turned out to be the right front wheel bearing. The noise sounded like rattling keys or a chain.
G.M. - If it is an engine noise you should be able to hear it in the other two gears at the same power level/RPM. If this is true your problem may be detonation. Try running a tank of premium fuel through your car. If you are already using premium, then try retarding your timing a couple degrees. Where I live, the fuel is oxygenated from September through March, so you might want to see if your state does something similar; that might explain why there was a sudden change. If your problem is really only after 53 mph, then I would suspect something in the front end. When a problem arises after doing some work, it is usually in the area that was last worked on - I would check the bearings.
G_: - It sounds like your timing chain is hitting on the cover. Try taking a round piece of metal about 3' long and touching were it sounds like it is coming from. Listen to it with your ear against metal and have someone bring engine up to about 2500 rpm. Also, check the water pump. I like to use a piece of 1/2" copper pipe. You will have to change timing chain or water pump if that is where the noise is coming from.
Archivist: Tom Wilson
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