just started noticing what sounds like valves knocking/rattling when I first start the engine...... cold. Never noticed before...... is this normal ?? Just has 3000 miles on it !!!

 

do a search in the L forum and you will find a lot of people complaining about it on startup in the colder months...

I put mobil one 5w30 in my truck and it eliminated the marbles in a can sound if that is what you are referring to.

Ken

 

What area are you in? How cold is it? I've noticed a little noise at start up in the early a.m. (high 30's to low 40's) but it goes away after just a couple minutes. I attribute it to the oil draining down in the cylinders when I park, then the fact that it's cold in the morning takes a couple minutes to pump up.

Next oil change this kid is switching to synthetic oil.

 

marbles in the can is exactly what it sounds like..... just for a few minutes. I think it's time for some Mobil 1...... thanks guys !!

 

The synthetic might help some but these OHC engines are noisy to begin with. Mine has rattled since new! Somewhat more pronounced in colder temps especially upon initial start-up. I have ran Mobil-1, 5W-30 since the first oil change at 1000 miles. Minimal difference in noise!

 

Piston slap, my 99L does it when it gets cold. Try synthetic oil.