Odd rattling noise

[Strazzman]

I have a 130 defender with a 300 Tdi, lately when I start it in the morning for the first 10 - 15 seconds after it fires up there is a loud rattling niose coming from around the engine, at first I thought (hoped) that it was the air filter mounts, however I have since discounted that theory. There is nothing visable to the eye that would indicate where the noise is coming from. If I give the engine a good quick rev just after starting it the noise does not start. During the day it does not happen again, my thoughts are leading to either the valves need adjusting or somehow there is a lack of oil at the top of the head prior to starting only retified when the pump has built up enough pressure to get the oil up to the top of the head. Has anyone out there experienced this or have any idea what it could be, and yes the sump has the correct amount of oil in it and and oil pressure light goes off straight after starting. thanks

[TerryS]

Your assumption that the noise is coming from the valve train is probably correct. As you know, the Tdi engine still need to have their rockers adjusted the old fashioned way. I'm not sure what LR suggests as an interval, but I would think every 5K would be appropriate.

When adjusting the rockers, use the 'Rule of Nine' When any valve is fully opened, take that valve number, and subtract it from nine to find the one to adjust

[Strazzman]

thanks Terry, will give it a go