front engine rattle

[mogatron]

hi team, had engine off a couple of weeks ago to check the state of the shells. all looked good so painted engine and put back in car. now there's a rattle from somewhere near the timing chain cover from what i can hear but could be behind it. any ideas what i've done wrong or what's happend?
also got a electrical problem on forum to. mot's awaiting these after 2 months on being off road.
Cheer Ben

[bmcecosse]

When you rebuilt the engine - did you fit new shells - or refit the old ones ? And did you torque up the caps correctly ?? Did you disturb the timing chain in any way ?

[mogatron]

i just put the old ones back on because they looked ok. yeah i think did torque them back down but can't be sure. yeah had timing chain off too. its a double chain jobbie

[mogatron]

just remembered that the oil warning lights come on too and there's plenty of oil in her

[bmcecosse]

Oh dear - it's NEVER a good idea to refit old shells - and you surely KNOW if you torqued up the bearing caps - or not! Oil light coming on = low oil pressure and most likely it has run the bearings and will now need a crankshaft regrind. Good news is - the Bull Motif exchange crank is an absolute bargain - go for it!! And - do fit a new oil pump at the same time!

[mogatron]

So do you always fit new shells if you have taken them out? i have a spare crank thats done about 1000 miles since regrind. i take it i need to get new shells for it then?

[bmcecosse]

It's up to you - I suppose if they are 'perfect' they will be ok!