So cold here, low 20s , car starts just fine , but gets a marble sound from top of engine between the cam shafts , what has 2 lines going to it between the camshaft cover , a/c , emission stuff ? . timing belt , water pump replaced 20,000 miles ago car has 160000 miles on it.
Thanks for any help
Wayne

 

Have you had the valves adjusted?

 

Will check maintanace book and see how often it is needed
Thanks Wayne

 

It is hard to diagnose noises over the internet. Does the noise go away after the engine warms up?

 

PAhonda the noise goes away after 3-5 mins, never happen during the fall , just now that it is cold , if 30s is cold !!
Wayne

 

Cold is relative term for Texas vs growing up in Pennsylvania.

What viscosity of oil are you using in your vehicle? Check the oil level. When was the last time the filter and oil were changed?

Adjusting the valves is something I'd leave an expert check/do. I'm not as familiar with the V6 layout, so can you post a picture of the part you were asking about in your first post?

 

Change oil according to cars computer , we do not drive a lot, 20 mile round trips to town , maybe a few longer ones .so oil is getting warmed up , Use oil weight like Honda says
Wayne

 

Valve adjustment on a V-6 looks pretty similar to a 95-2002 -ish F-series 4-cyl, so if Wayne is comfortable adjusting valves on other cars it's not much different. Rear cam & rockers might be tough access with the firewall & cowling...

As far as candidates for the rattling noise, I'm not very familiar with the V6 either. Water pump is up high, centered between the heads, but it's at the belt-end of the engine. Timing-belt tensioner pulley?

 

Yes, I just did valve adjustment on 2003 Acura MDX w/ 3.5l V6. The rear valves are challenging to access.

Valve cover is covered by a wiring harness that can't be totally relocated. Harness can be loosened from tiedowns and lifted enough (w/ bungee) to allow the valve cover to be lifted slightly and slid out from underneath harness.

Valve train is difficult to reach. It may be easier on a sedan since much lower than MDX. I had to lay on my stomach on the engine to reach. I've seen a video by South Main Auto where he removed tires and set truck on rotors to lower front end for rear engine access.

good luck

 

I like JimBlake,s answer , I think when it warms up a little more , I,ll check out the timing belt pulley.
Thanks Again Wayne