Sounds similar to the noise I get when starting my '88 for a breif moment, and also
when it's undergoing Vanagon Syndrome. It's a standard, and I know the mount on
the nose of the trans is gone, so I'm assuming the noise is either from the  mount
itself, or nearby. The automatic may be similar - check the front mount for play - you
should be able to see it with engine running under conditions you mention.

On 21 May 2003 at 14:29, Andy Yarnell wrote:

> 1989 Carat Wolfsburg Edition
> Automatic transmission, 2.1L engine.
>
> At cold idle in drive, the engine has a lot of movement, enough to
> rattle against the body at some unknown location.
> This is very annoying sitting at a stop light or stop sign.
> If I put it in neutral at a stop light, the movement ceases.
> After engine gets up to normal operating temperature the engine movement
> goes away.
> Any ideas as to what is going on here?
>
> The transmission is smooth otherwise, shifts nicely and when it is
> supposed to.
> Engine is in tip top shape, heads were done at Eurocars not long ago,
> and it idles fine, around 850-900 RPM.
>
> Any help is greatly appreciated.
>
> Andy
>

--
Shawn Wright
http://Zuiko.sls.bc.ca/swright
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