'94 Nissan Altima rattles

Loose engine bearings, piston slap, loose timing chain. I would really need to hear it to know what it is. Any shop can tell you what it is.

Most likely bad timing chain, guide or tensioner SALE Maxima Altima 350Z Murano Timing Chain Kit 3 5L V6 VQ35DE with...

A Nissan ultima does not have a timing belt,it has a timing chain,look up in your manual for your maintenance schedules when and at what mileage you are needed to change the chain,usually the chain is changed when it is loose through stretching in wear over mileage,a very loose chain has a rattling noise in the engine compartment by the cam gears,good luck ,hope that I was helpful.

if your chain becomes loose it will become very noisy and should be replaced since most nissans are interference engines which means lots of money for a new engine

It is possible that you have some timing chain noise, especially if you have the 3.5L engine. The secondary timing chain tensioners on the 3.5 have a known problem, Nissan has issued a service bulletin regarding this and there is an updated part to replace them. It is not a cheap job, but your dealer may give you some "goodwill" depending on your mileage. If you have the 2.5L the problem may a couple of other things...even more serious! They had catalytic converters that came apart and got ingested into the engine, eventually destroying it. Try googling "Altima rattle" and include your engine size in the search. There is a ton of info on the net about noises in these cars.

check your fue nozzles

I have a '94 Altima with 2.4 liter 4 cyl. engine. At around 150K the timing chain and tensioner were replaced - should solve your problem, too. If you're sure the chain is rattling you should really get it serviced now, not later. Also, if your car is running rough it could be more than just the chain and tensioner; it could be your ignition system, such as plugs, coil, distributor, etc. Bottom line is, your car needs to be checked out right away.

and the lower chain guides?

the timing chain guides have worn out. the engine will have to be torn apart to replace hem. a 12 hour job.

there will be a rattle the front of the engine. the end with all your pulleys and belts on. And it will be hard to work out if it's in the engine or the pulleys.

It is a common that a TICKING coming from the front of the engine is the timing chain guide.

This -->LINK<-- will help you alot.

Regards

Philip