Sometimes (about once every 2 weeks) when I start up my engine (only at start up) I get a weird noise that is coming from the front of the engine. It is very hard to describe but it almost sounds like a belt or chain is not seated properly. It is kind of a high pitched noise but it is not squealing like a belt. The engine does not seem to be running rough either; it just has this loud noise. I can either REV the engine to get the noise to go away, or shut it off and start it again and it will run just fine. I know I did not give a very good description but that is the best I can do. I will try and maybe get a sound clip if I can catch it.

What does it sound like when the timing chain guides are gone or when the chain needs to be replaced?

 

sounds like a timing chain how many miles do u have on ur 4runner

 

if it's anything like the sound of a 22R timing chain headed south, it'll tick intermittently with light loads and really tick badly with a load on the engine.

 

um... does his truck use a timing chain?!

 

It only has 130K on it.

It does have a tick but only when the truck is moving. If I rev the engine while stationary it does not tick. Also, the tick seems to be vehicle speed (MPH) related and not engine speed (RPM) related. Does that indicate timing chain?

I assumed the tick was coming from my driveshaft (becomes more frequent as vehicle speed is increased-indpependent of engine speed) which is another issue (being 2wd and lifted and not having a double cardigan driveshaft joint give vibes).

Yes, the 2.7L engine does have a timing chain.

 

then you can cross the engine off your list. i know this sounds dumb, but have you checked your tires for rocks stuck between the tread?

 

timing chain sounds like a marble being rattled around in a can

 

I hear those damn marbles pretty much every time I start the truck.

 

i hear the same thing when i start my truck mine sounds like a diesel then it goes away

 

That "diesel-like" sound often comes from low oil pressure...