Dreaded rattle sound
 

87 S4 Auto trans. Lately a troubling development is a rattling sound at idle. The car has had a torque tube replacement, torque conv. bearings, and RMB about a year ago. I checked all exhaust and heat shields hoping that was it. Nope. Sounds like it's coming from the torque converter. I am trying to see if I can check/tighten the rear flex plate bolts.

So, dumb question- how do I turn the torque conv. so I can check the bolts from the inspection hole?

Just stick your fingers in there and push and turn. Engine off for sure!
Thomas

Rattle could be the flexplate rivets. See post 44.

to turn the TC put a 27mm socket on the crank and turn it,
a helper turning while your looking for the bolts is helpful.
I would suggest to inspect both of the pinch bolts on the driveshaft.
it is not uncommon for the rear bolt to work loose.
If the TT was recently rebuilt then it can also be a worn bearing support carrier .
If you notice a dull thud while stopping this could be the damper sliding into the bearing carriers

I am sorry if I mislead you. I recall spinning my auto by hand. It is possible I had the flex plate already disconnected when I spun mine.
Thank you Stan!
Thomas

Thanks for the help guys. I figured I needed to spin the crank but got frustrated (working in a very small garage) and gave up for the day. I really wish I had a lift and a normal garage... I'll get after it again.