Good Evening,

 

I just joined the forum, thank you for having me.

 

I loaned my 2003 Outback to a friend in need recently.  While he was driving on an exit ramp off the turnpike it broke down.  No warning lights came on before or during the break down.  He could not get it to start back up. Also, he says the dipstick was dry when he checked the oil after the fact.  He put more oil in and towed it back to my place.

 

Once I got it back to my block, I was able to get it started.  However, it is making a very loud clacking sound once it starts. The engine seems to be running normal with the exception of this sound.  The sound kicks in several seconds after the engine turns over.  I took a video but am having trouble attaching.   A  friend with some mechanical experience thought it might be valve related after hearing it. Any thoughts or suggestions before I take it in.  I don't have a trusted subaru mechanic in New York, my guy is in Virginia and before I tow it there myself I'd appreciate any insight anyone might have.

 

Thanks!

 

Ryan

Edited December 18, 20178 yr by RycoMoleman

check cam/crank timing. how long since timing belt service.

 

how much oil was added to bring it up to the proper level? a used engine oil analysis may be helpful if bad rod bearing is suspected.

 

was there an overheat event? any missing coolant? (look in the radiator-never trust the level in the overflow bottle to accurately reflect the radiator's level))

I had the timing chain replaced at a little over 100k...now I'm at 180k.  

 

3 quarts.  Do I just drain the oil and take it to a shop?

 

There was not an overheat event.  No coolant was missing.

Here's a video of the engine running briefly.

 

Rod knock. That engine is toast.

Cut oil filter open, check for metal deposits.

Reread the last two posts. Rod bearing circus. It’s scrap.

 

Timing tensioners and valves can be noisy like rod knock but a quart and a half or two of oil while interstate driving in a New York is as good as a coffin.

agreed.  That motor sounds like it is done for.  

+1. Ran it out of oil. Time for used engine. This time around put in new rings and run synthetic. These engines have problems with oil coking in the oil control rings, and skirt drain back holes. Once that clogs up they burn oil like mad.

 

GD

Oof.  Thanks for the advice.  Lesson learned.