Intermittent ticking noise when ON but not running

[VerbalKint]

When I have the ignition switch in the ON position, but have not started the car yet, I can hear a random ticking comming from the engine compartment (Can not hear from inside the car, have to be outside with hood up).

It sounds like its comming from the back side of the engine, maybe 3/4 of the way to the bottom.

I am unsure if the ticking continues when the car is running, as it is completely masked by the engine noise.

The car is a 1991 Eagle Talon N/T

Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

 

[TalonTSi-AWD91]

Check your ISC and check your ECU caps. The ISC is what's making the noise and mine did it when the ECU caps started leaking.

 

[mark95turbo]

When My ECU went bad (one of the 4 times, haha) my little emissions sensor box thingy (the un needed box near the drivers side upper firewall under the hood clicked like a SOB when the key was turned to the ON position. check that out too. Simply unplug the electrical connectors from it and see how that effects the noise. Good luck!

 

[VerbalKint]

Thanks for the tips and info.

Also, one other thing I have noticed.. When accelerating, in any gear, theres a ratteling noise comming from the front of the car.

I am pretty sure it has nothing to do with the brakes, or anything in that area. I just had a brake job done, the inner tie rod replaced, and the driverside CV Boot replaced.

 

[nined2tsi]

Yeah like stated above its prolly your ISC. Mine does that sometimes. I dont think its my ecu, hope not. Wheres the best place to walk you through checking the ecu for leaking caps?

 

[TalonTSi-AWD91]

http://www.tmo.com/howto/ecu1g/caps.htm