My wifes 2000 Intrepid ES with 3.2 suddenly started sounding likes a diesel engine. The noise is coming from the top side of the engine and is not just a ticking, it's more like clattering. Seems to be coming from both sides of the motor. The engine runs normal and strong otherwise.
The oil pressure light would flicker occasionally at idle, but it was not constantly on, nor was it regular. The car has 178k on it but has been serviced very regularly by me it's whole life.
I have removed one of the valve covers to see if anything was noticeably worn or broken, but all looks normal except for any lack of wetness from oil. It's like the top end is not getting lubricated. If I knew how to upload photos I would post one.
Is it possible that the oil pump was just not making enough pressure to get oil to the top of the engine? Would that not make the oil pressure lamp stay on all the time, not just flicker at idle?
Could there be something blocking the passages to the top and how would one go about cleaning or opening those passages up so oil can get to the top of the head. I have read about sludge in the 2.7 motors, but not the 3.2.
I really am not all that interested in replacing the engine, but that is certainly something I could do if I had to $$. would it be less expensive to rebuild this motor?
Any helpful insights would be welcome. Thanks

 

Nobody huh? Either there are no mechanics on this forum, or the questions are just to darn obvious.
Well since no replies, I will just have to open this thing up myself and let you guys know what I find.
Anyone know how to post photos here? Just in case I want to show you all what is going on?