Exhuast system noise?

[rudeney]

I’ve noticed an unusual sound when starting the ML. It sounds like a metal bucket being thumped. It only makes the sound once right as the starter engages. Otherwise, there seems to be no other symptoms. I seem to recall hearing this once or twice before during the hottest days last summer.

This may or may not be related, but I have also heard a similar type sound after the engine is turned off and the truck has been sitting for 20 minutes or so. Based on the type of sound, I am guessing that it’s coming from the exhaust system as it cools. Anyone have anything similar that led to anything serious?

- RODNEY

[cmitch]

Have you ran over anything in that never-ending Birmingham highway constuction? Say a road striper holding a bucket??[:D]

Could it be the catylitic converter or exhaust? My Dodge truck makes a similar sound at first start-up but goes away until next a.m.

[rudeney]

AFAIK, I have not run over anything. I examined the underside of the truck and also found nothing. It only makes the noise once, right at he first turn of the starter, and it doesn’t always do it, but it does seem to occur only when it’s hot outside.

- RODNEY

Rodney,
I have the same noise. I hope it's not a problem. I havent had time to get underneith to see if anything is loose.
Mike