changed the oil and filter yesterday but engine still tapping from cold start, then goes away.
could it be the hydrolic tappets? if it is how do i diagnose and fix it?

 

To be honest, it is probably piston slap. My UK Turbo (MY99) does it when cold and is gone within 2 minutes.
The pistons are made so that they fit properly when hot, not cold.

 

ok, but is it something dangerous? should i be worried? i've had the car for three years. this only started a couple weeks ago

 

What model is it? How many miles? Mods? How long between services? Need a bit more info really m8.

 

Also, what oil are you using?

 

it is a my01 1.6 ts turbo. i didn't do the turbo conv. it is factory fitted mass production. has done 108000 km. (about 65000 miles) last serviced at 97000 km. always put subaru fully synthetic, till yesterday. (mobil 1 5-40). religiusly serviced with utmost care but driven very hard also.
http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g3...n/DSC00159.jpg
http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g3...ygarage022.jpg
thanx for the help btw

 

I did'nt know scoobies came 1.6 with a Turbo,

Anyway which oil are you using?, like said it may be piston slap which is quiet common on the later models. Nothing to worry about.

Nice car btw

 

as i mentioned earlier; i used mobil1 5-40 this last time. before that, always subaru's own brand.
1.6 turbo was only done in greece. and it came with 150bhp and 180bhp (two versions) mine is the 150 bhp. i've got a copy of the brochure somewhere here...
found it