UK Focus Zetec 1.6 makes a fluttering noise accelerating in low gears

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Jeff - 13 Jun 2004 13:50 GMT

This happens when the engine is cold and warm. It is a water-like
fluttering noise accelerating when in 1st and 2nd gear, especially if
the revs are quite low. Is it something to do with the transmission?
My car has just been serviced, has only 15k on the clock and
performance doesn't seem to be affected. The noise is relatively quiet
but still annoying me. I just want to know what's causing it, should i
be worried, and should i have my dealer look at it?
Cheers in advance,
Jeff

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Paul Giverin - 13 Jun 2004 17:11 GMT

>This happens when the engine is cold and warm. It is a water-like
>fluttering noise accelerating when in 1st and 2nd gear, especially if
[quoted text clipped - 5 lines]
>Cheers in advance,
>Jeff

Sounds like pinking (or pre-ignition to give it its correct name). It's
caused by being in too high a gear with the revs too low. I get it on my
1.6 if I change up from 1st to 2nd too early.

Using a higher octane fuel like Optimax or the BP equivalent will also
solve the problem but try holding on a bit longer before changing up
first to see if its any better.

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Paul Giverin

British Jet Engine Website http://www.britjet.co.uk

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