Valve rattle
 

My 94 4Runner V6 makes a light rattle sound every time I accellerate. Especially going up a hill. I think it sounds like valves but don't know. Does't sound like normal noisy V6. Thought it might be pinging so I tried messing with the timing but it did not change anything. I was told that the valves are hydraulic and there is no adjustment. Any suggestions?

RE: Valve rattle
 

With an overhead cam the valves are not hydraulic. They are adjustable and are on the maintenence schedule.

You might have an exhaust leak. If you only get the sound when you call for power then I would put my money on the exhaust leak. With the way the V6 routes the right side exhaust behind the engine and into the left bank exhaust manifold you will hear the leak while you drive if it is leaking at the cross over. HTH T