Engine Noise Help

[TdotTercel]

hi everyone, first post here.

Problem: Im in a 92 tercel with 3ee in it. It has a rattle that sounds like its coming from the engine itself. Its not the heat shield, Ive removed that. It happens upon acceleration, especially when the RPM's are over 3000, but seems to dissipate as it approaches redline. I cant for the life of me pinpoint excactly where its coming from. One thing tho, It DOES NOT happen when the engine is cold. Not in the least, only after driving for a few minutes and it gets warmed up does it happen.

Any Ideas?

[GT4 BOOSTER]

could well be the crank shaft bearings or the small ends , ***** i hope not

[Kelvyn]

Piston slap???

[TdotTercel]

How can I check if it is indeed the bearings?

Im doing a full tune-up this weekend, and crissing my fingers.

New plugs/wires/cap/rotor, valve clearance/and cover gasket check

and get the timing checked.

Failing all this, I would like to somehow check if its the crankshaft bearings being spun or not.

Is there something is should be looking/listening for?