245L noise

I bought a 245L 79 wagon a few weeks ago. It was pretty cheap and seemed to be running fine. I bought it privately and I don't think it was dogeyed up at all. Yesterday drove to the park to walk the dogs, everything fine. Got back in the car, started it, and it sounded like a lawn mower. I topped up the oil, (which was low), but before I run off to a mechanic I'd like some idea of what it might be. Any suggestion? Sometimes it sounds like it could even be the fan or even exhaust hole, only guessing...much louder when accelerating in lower gears. Would appreciate any comments
cheers,
Clare

[Patrick Garland]

Hi, I wouldn't want your first post to go unreplied to but I fear I am not terribly technically minded. Can you get someone to start and rev it while you listen from outside, preferably with bonnet up but don't get too near as there are lots of belts whizzing around under there. Past problems I have had that cause noises are screaming fan belts and water pumps, blown exhaust silencer boxes and on one occasion the spark plug actually blew out of the engine but if it was that you would know about it ! Also could be the starter motor is sticking and or not disengaging after the engine has started. And finally does it drive as it used to despite the noise. If you can pinpoint the noise I feel sure someone on this site will have some comments. Good luck.

Thanks Patrick for the reply.
Yes, it does run like it used to thankfully. Just three times as noisey. I don't think it is the fan, I checked under the bonnet and the noise does seem to come from the engine end ...the muffler thing could definitely be a possibility. Looks like I will just have to face the mechanic.
cheers,
Clare

Hi Patrick,
an exhaust problem....apparently the engine pipe is cracked all round. Reasonably cheap repair....I am breathing a sigh of relief. Thanks again.
Clare

[paul4be]

Glad to hear it wasn't a major problem. You'll be sorted and back on the road in no time!!!