On Dec 18, 2011, at 10:00 AM, grant l lindberg wrote:

> Severe loss of power + rattling sounds from '90 engine.   I made a short recording - the rattling is most pronounced after 6 sec,  around 8 sec there is a "clunk",  rattling is in the recording is not as noticeable after this.
> 
> http://dl.dropbox.com/u/13252992/vanagon%20engine.mp3
> Any ideas what might be happening?    I'm debating whether it will be worth towing it to shop; I fear that repairs will be too costly.   Also,  any recommendations for engine repair shops  in the SF bay area?   Thanks!

I'm not the expert here Grant, but I've heard this noise once before on a Subaru, and it was an engine rod.

Bob