First Time Post. My 97 4x2 4Runner has a noise in the upper head/valve cover area. It is a "light growling/churning sound heard at idle. I ordered this truck new for my sister-in-law and just picked it up from her in January with 115k. I have replaced all fluids and filters. Plus EGR valve, plugs and all belts. The truck runs great, good power burns no oil and gets 22mpg all the time. I thought the noise was in one of the attachments on the front of the motor (AC, Alt, PS) I removed all the belts and the noise is still present. FYI 2.7 Auto 4x2 with factory 12.5 disc brakes factory 16' wheels (stock large tires) and a 4.10 rear gear. Please Help!!!

 

Any fans of the 2.7 who can help with the above problem?

 

The 2.7L are very shaky motors. It's most likely normal. As long it goes it healthy dosage of maintainence id say it's fine

 

The motor idles smooth, but the noise is not normal it sounds like something is making contact in the head (timing chain?) I am thinking maybe the guides?