Diesel rattle

[phil newman]

Hi,

I have an E300 diesel 1995 and would like to know (never owning a diesel before) about the noises they make. On acceleration when cold there is a pinking rattle sort of noise, its not mechanical but just like a severe petrol pink. When the engine gets warm this sound is much less evident. This might be a stupid question, but any input would be appreciated.

Many thanks

Phil Newman

 

[imported_dieselman]

It sounds like the timing may be a bit too advanced.  When cold diesels can make a bit of noise but usually when under no load and at idle, due to incomplete combustion.
If as you say it is only when cold it shouldn't be a problem, however check there are no air bubbles in the clear pipes near the filter and run some injector cleaner through the fuel system.