1994 diesel - Droning from top end? Anything to worry about?

[pcman_jh]

My 1994 C250 Diesel (130, 000 miles) has a noticeable droning that appears to be coming from the top, at the front, of the engine. It's only there fractionally after tickover, but then it goes away once it's taken past this point - it's only there just after tickover, then it's fine.

If I was to better describe the noise it's like a heavy tappet noise. I don't think it's the timing chain as I've had experience of worn timing chains on motorbikes (cue comments on apples and oranges comparisons!). Looking at the timing chain through the oil filler, everything looks clean and unworn.

I can't empahsise enough that it's only there at the RPM just after tickover, then immediately goes away once it's reved past this point.

Am I just paranoid?

 

[thargreaves]

i have a c250 1994 mine has the same sound an has since i got it at 80000 miles it has now done 426000 and runs great only problem was the diff at 230000 had to be rebuilt fantastic engine & box though

 

[sixpack]

Noise from top/front

Hi PCMAN

I had a similar noise on the same engine (605.910). It turned out to be the short hydraulic strut that damps the belt tensioner. Its bolted right on the front of the cyl head. Easy to replace & about £11 from eurocarparts It does seem an odd noise to come from this part but it seems to be a common failing. Totally agree with THARGREAVES, superb engine!

Peter