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MG MGF Technical - Rattling & loss of power - follow up post

Follow up on a post from a fortnight ago. My 98 VVC suddenly developed an alarming rattle from the engine bay and a loss of power.

Just heard back from the dealer that it is a problem with the VVC unit and that they are sending it off to a Rover dealer. Can anyone help me out again and explian what the likely problems and costs of repair are ?

Thanks in advance.
Davey

Most likely a failed cam shaft bolt Davey - see http://www.mgf.ultimatemg.com/MGF_recalls.htm#r2 for some more details on this problem...
Rob Bell

Sorry, I don't think I have been specific enough. Workshop tells me that there's no problem resulting from the recent cambelt changes (after HGF) and that the high revving/chugging comes and goes. Cannot really explain any better as I do not have the mechanical knowledge.
Davey

Rattling from the VVC unit usually is the cam bolt - so whether the garage reckons it was anything to do with their cam belt change is immaterial (and they would say that wouldn't they? ;o) )
Rob Bell

Thanks Rob. I take your point and agree they would say that. But, the rattle lasted only 5 seconds or so, like a bunch of stones running round a wheel arch but clearly from over my right shoulder. No rattle since, just this high revving at idle and chugging. Is this consistent with the cam bolt problem ?
Davey

I've not heard this rattle first hand (my F is a 1.8i) - but there is a fair amount on this topic in the archives. Might be worth your time reading through these to see if others have reported similar noise patterns...
Rob Bell

Davey, <No rattle since, just this high revving at idle and chugging. Is this consistent with the cam bolt problem ? >
This is usually the symptom of a loose cam bolt on the front VVC (rh/drivers) unit. This would have been removed when the head was off for a HG.
<Workshop tells me that there's no problem resulting from the recent cambelt changes (after HGF)>
Well clearly they would say this to cover any incompetant work done previously.
The VVC unit will no doubt be damaged now due to the bolt working loose and damaging the threads. Ask for all parts to be retained for inspection and the work rectified at no cost to you.
<Just heard back from the dealer that it is a problem with the VVC unit and that they are sending it off to a Rover dealer.>
So who is repairing the car??
HTH.
Mike
mike

Thanks Mike. Well, the nearest Rover dealer will be doing the work. Irrespective of who's doing it, the work ought to come under the 12 month warranty and/or rectification of unsatisfactory work if that is the cause of the problem. By the way, HTH ?
Davey

By the way, HTH ?

Hope This Helps, Davey.
JohnP

This thread was discussed between 26/03/2004 and 27/03/2004

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