Funny (not really)! Noise started yesterday

[raps]

Hi folks, new boy on here needing some guidance. My Avensis is a oldish 2005 D4D with approx 170,000 miles on her, started her yesterday morning and noticed a faint thumping noise?!, by the end of my journey some 60 miles later the thumping noise was louder but only on tickover, if you pick the revs up very slightly it stops!. To be clear I’m certain it’s coming from the engine.

any thoughts or advice gratefully received, thanks

[raps]

Ok, so much for being certain the noise was coming from the engine!, had some time today to investigate and a quick look underneath revealed the rear end of the fuel tank heat shield was hanging down onto the exhaust, the rear mounting had rotted through!. So, half an hour later and a bit of fabricating and it’s end of doom laden noise!!.