Engine knock, could this be a blown engine?

It could be it spun a rod bearing or you have broken piston. can you please shoot a quick video with your phone so I can hear the noise? That way I can tell for sure what's going on. You can upload it here with your response. Also, can I ask if the check engine light is on?

Hi Ken,

Going out to the car now to make a quick video of the noise. I am sure the motor is shot.

Here is the video.

Thanks for the video, it helps. Yes to me it sounds like the timing chain guide has broken and you are hearing the chain contact the case. We can remove the timing chain cover to confirm the issue, here is how. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

Thank you. In your opinion, do you think it is worth going to all this disassembly if in fact it is the timing chain guide? It starts up every time, idles, doesn't overheat, just this noise. But it does have over 200,000 miles on it. Been a very good van though for the last 4 years.

Yep, you are on the line as far as a new engine goes, but it should cost about $1,400.00 to have a shop fix it or if you do it yourself it should cost about $500.00 in parts.

Thanks again Ken. So in your personal opinion, if this was your van, would you dissemble it to determine if in fact this is the chain guide? Secondly would you make the repair? My daughter is divorced and her and her three kids live with us. She has a job but deadbeat dad pays no support. So I bear the brunt of the expense. The van is still in nice shape, but has 200,000 plus miles on it. I value your opinion and thanks so much for all the times you have helped me.

good job picking up the pieces of your family, all of us have to take care of someone. If the inside of the engine looks clean, I would think about just fixing it the problem, the engine needs to be disassembled anyway for removal/replacement or repair so you have nothing to lose. I would take the timing cover off for inspection.

Thank you Ken.

You are welcome, if you have any other question please let us know we are here to help.