Strange noise eminating from engine...

[sangajas]

I own a 99' 2.3 9-5, and have recently noticed (with the windows down) a rattling sound comming form the engine, whenever I accelerate. i only get this sound when I push the throttle, and its not immidiate, but right around 3000rpm or so, depending on the gear I'm in. It happens in all gears, and feel that I am being shorted hp.
This is my first saab and would appreciate any insight on the mysterious sound, being on how I am young and relatively poor and can't afford taking it to the dealership all the time. I would rather tend to it myself.

thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this.

[aero1116]

Loose DI cassette? My car was rattling like crazy when the DI came loose, so take a look.

[Kermit]

How many miles on the clock? Does the rattling sound come from the left hand end of the engine as you look into the engine bay?

[Cambio]

The two things that commonly make loud rattling noises are broken timing chains and broken clutches. If your car is an automatic we can rule out the clutch.

[sangajas]

I have 76K on my clock, and when I hear the noise it sounds to me like its coming from the driver side. But then of course i imagine its because its the window down on my side (left side drive). I have not checked the DI cassette, and will do so today to see if anything is loose.
Wosrt case scenario, if indeed I have a crap clutch and chains, can a moderate DIY mechanic like me fix them. Or would I have to take it to the dealer, and if so, how many limbs should it cost???

[Cambio]

Clutches and timing chains really aren't for anybody but a very competent mechanic. Both should run you about $1000 each for parts and labor.

[sangajas]

I'll have to check and see if its the DI casette or not, Hope to God that its not my clutch or timing Ch's.
I have already ordered a Forge recirculating dump valve and upgraded the actuator, and would like to, if I'm gonna have to replace it, put an upgraded clutch in. Any advice or tips on would help.

Once again, thanks for the advice everyone.

[MacNoob]

Pretty hard to listen to your noise from here, but is it possible you're just hearing pinging from bad gas?

[patty AT forge]

Check that the turnbuckle and jam nut on the actuator arm of the wastegate are tightened.