Freelander 1.8 top end rattle

I have an issue with my 1.8 Freelander 2005. After someone managed to wring the life out of my car it now has a top end rattle when warm. The hydraulic valve lifters have been replaced, I have tried Wynns engine flush, pint of diesel in the oil etc. but to no avail.
The strange part is it is quiet when cold but the rattle increases as the engine warms up. Has anyone else had this happen. Anyone got any ideas on how to maybe rectify this problem?

Thanks

I'd be checking the oil pressure. It could be that the oil pressure control valve has stuck open.

Hi Nodge, Thank you for the response. Where does the control valve sit, in the sump?

Radical44 said:

Hi Nodge, Thank you for the response. Where does the control valve sit, in the sump?

Click to expand...

The oil pressure relief valve, as it is correctly called, is situated in the oil pump housing. Over time black gunge builds up inside an engine. This is scraped off under normal operation. If the engine has been revved over where it has been revved up before. If the relief valve piston is pushed into the gunge where it normally doesn't travel. Then it can stick open, giving low oil pressure, and the symptoms you describe.
The easiest test is to check the oil pressure with a gauge, screwed into the pressure switch drilling.

It is possible to remove the oil pressure relief valve without taking the oil pump off. There's a large Allen plug at an angle, near the pressure switch. This is the pressure relief housing.

Thanks again. I was also thinking about looking at the oil pump pickup screen.

Radical44 said:

Thanks again. I was also thinking about looking at the oil pump pickup screen.

Click to expand...

It is possible to be clogged, but your symptoms don't suggest the pickup screen to me. Well worth doing a pressure check, before pulling the sump off unnecessarily

Thanks Nodge68 I will give a go at pulling out the oil pressure relief valve. From what you have said that sounds a good starting point.