98 Manual Subaru Outback Rattle?

Question

It doesnt start until the engine is warmed up. After about 10 minutes, it rattles randomly from 2,000 RPM all the way up to 6500 unless i am flooring it. I dont think its the clutch because it rattles weather or not its engaged. I was thinking it was maybe the catalytic converter, but i had an auto part store check it out and they said it wasnt the cat

Answer 1

Sounds like a loose heat shield somewhere on the exhaust.

Should be an easy fix, have someone search for loose shields on the exhaust.

Answer 2

The most common rattle I can think of on an Outback, would be the numerous heat shields that cover the front header pipes, catalytic converters, and other exhaust parts. The rattle they cause isn't usually specific to engine temp, but is most noticeable on acceleration ( listen for a buzzing, tinny type of sound). Have a  trusted mechanic get it up on a lift, and try to duplicate the noise with you present.. that way you can point it out, and they can check things while the problem is present. Outbacks are tough cars, so it's not likely anything serious.