2001 2.7 engine noise

Hey guys I’m new here so wanted get y’all thoughts on what my noise could be on my 2001 Tacoma 2.7. It’s got a rattling type noise that sounds like it’s coming from top end. Had a buddy to listen with hood up said it sounds like front of the motor somewhere around the area where ya put the oil in at. Truck does do it at idle it does it at a certain rpm an then when winding engine tight it does it also. Truck has 168k miles on it. I’ve called few mechanics also an few say may be a guide on timing chain an others say it does sound like its timing chain related but none has got a chance to actual hear it yet. My question has anyone experienced this issue or could anyone point me in the direction of what it could be more than likely. I haven’t had the truck very long I took it in on trade to just use as a hunting/work ride pretty much. I have changed the fuel filter, spark plugs, done oil change, an got coils ordered just to go ahead and replace those to pretty much give it a tune up. Truck runs out fine, idles fine, no smoke or oil consumption. Any help to point me in right direction will be appreciated it has me puzzled as to what noise could be.

 

I’ll also add that I’ve checked for anything loose on it heat shields etc. which like I say it sounds like it’s coming from top end and at front around where ya put oil in at around that area.

 

Sounds timing chain related to me. Can you record a video of the noise? Then upload it to youtube and post the link here.

 

Yea I’ll try get one after while an post it. Thank you for the reply.

 

I have the same engine and having lots of noises that don't sound normal. Have you figured out what yours needed?

 

Ended up being timing chain an balance shaft bearings on mine.

 

Thanks for your reply, I have been suspecting the timing chain on mine.

 

There are two of these 95s with 2.7 in my family. My Dad's chain got loose and started making noise at about 150,000. I replaced it, along with oil and water pumps, etc. My truck now at 158.000 quite as ever. I read on TW all the time people saying "2.7L has timing chain which never needs replacing". Not necessarily true, but at least they do give you a warning noise when they get loose. 22R engine did the same.