Spitting sound

**blom157** · 3rd February 2009, 00:38

When starting the engine from cold I have a fast spitting sound from my engine on my 2.2 Direct Vectra which stops after about 3-4 mins and it then seems to run like a Diesel rough as hell..It is intermittent and don't want to fork out garage fees if anyone can give me any tips as to what it might be..??

Just had it serviced and it's made no difference a few colleagues reckon it's a sticky valve so I've tried STP oil treatment but to no avail...

**rushy** · 3rd February 2009, 02:03

Sounds like a sticky hydraulic lifter or chain problem mate, both an expensive fix i'm afraid. Does it sound like this? Try putting 10w40 in and fill right up to the full mark. It seams to sort mine.

**blom157** · 4th February 2009, 13:48

No it doesn't sound like that it sounds worse... I've got it booked into the garage and they reckon it's what you said it is... Any idea as to how much it will cost me..

**rushy** · 4th February 2009, 22:43

No idea mate, Dealer about £600-£700? Properly half that at independent. Even if its not the chain and its the lifter i'd get a new chain kit fitted while the timings all off.

There is one other thing it could be which i've heard of on the 2.2 and its a cracked zorst manifold or even a loose one. So at the very very and lucky best it could just need a bolt tightening up.