update: the horrible noise was being caused by loose flexplate-to-torque convertor bolts (they were finger tight, made it sound like it had a bad rod bearing) So I don’t need a new engine YAY!!
If anyone can help…
sorry about the bad picture quality (couldn’t find my good camera)
There is a fairly loud rattling noise under the hood, it disappears after the rpm’s hit 1000 and sometimes re-appears when the engine is under light load.
It is very loud on the driver’s side, and significantly muffled on the passenger side (I think it’s the exhaust manifold) also, sometimes the rattling sound comes from right around the shifter, and the shifter vibrates.
also, it has an exhaust leak under the hood. It doesn’t make the noise when turning over (starter is engaged)
I’m hoping someone can help me narrow this down!