engine rattle help

this one has got me beat I'm afraid and need your help please.

got a rattle from top end of 1.8 gti engine with hydraulic lifters.

got the rattle immediatly after a brisk 300 mile round trip on motor way averaging 80 - 90 for most part.

engine covered only 60k

changed all tappets but noise still there.  increases in noise with rpm but is not bad at idle.  description of noise is most like a rattle as apposed to knowck or rumble from bottom end.

somtebody has suggested that perhaps the bearings in end of piston to conrod could be at fault.  Never come accross this problem before but don't wish to discount it.

does antone have any suggestions for me

any help greatly appreciated

thanks

Paul

01325374343
ps ever88 .fsnet.co.uk

Water Pump ?

Alternator bearing?

Cam belt idler ?

Exhaust heat shield loose ?



Few to think about ……….What makes you sure its the tappet area ? Can you hear it in the rocker cover with you ear close to it ?

Cheers……….

Small end bearings could be at fault - use a stick or something pressed to your ear and on the engine to help locate the source of the rattle. Be careful of moving parts.

What oil have you in the engine? If its old or too thin that may account for rattles when its been heated up on a high speed run?