Nasty rattle is it camshaft adjuster

[Devonian]

I've just noticed a nasty rattle from my engine. As with all noises it's difficult to describe but I'll give it a go.
It seems very regular in that as the engine accelerates up to around 1500 - 2000 rpm there is a rattle burst lasting maybe 1 second then back to normal. the same sound on decelerating. I can't identify exactly where it's coming from, the nearest I can see is the top end. removing the oil filler cap does not make it louder.

reading this link:
http://forums.mercedesclub.org.uk/showthread.php?t=30425&highlight=rattle

I wonder if it is the camshaft adjuster. Perhaps someone can advise me how to unplug this as in the thread to see if it make any difference. Failing that any other idea's ?

 

[BlackC55]

Yes that sounds like the cam actuator.

Remove the cover for it (at the very front of the engine) and un plug it.

Rev it up again and if its gone you have found the problem.

 

[Devonian]

Spot on BlackC55 -- Unplugged it and rattle gone completely.

whats your opinion on replacing it. From the comments on the other thread it seems you can continue running the motor with the unit unplugged or leave it plugged in and put up with the noise, If i do the latter is it likely to get worse or let me down on the side of the road or cause other damage?

has anyone replaced one before? if so is it a reasonably easy job for a DIY'er

Thanks,

Andy

 

[dirtymonkey29]

Is there a cam actuator on an E300 turbo diesel, 1999? i cant see what i need to unplug to see if it cures the rattle. The rattle seems to be coming from under the manifold towards the rear at around 1000 - 2000 rpm whether moving or stationary.