Triumph Repair: Metallic rattle at 3400 rpm, retaining clip, shift lever

Question
Hello, I have a 1980 Spitfire (no overdrive) that runs and shifts well.  Recently it has developed a metallic rattle that starts at about 3100 rpm, peaks at 3400, and ends at 3500 rpm.  This rattle occurs at the same rpm regardless of the gear.  Shifting and power all feel normal.  The rattle is not a body part rattle but more like a moving part type of noise.

Do you have suggestions for the possible causes and where I should start looking.

Thanks.

Answer
Corey,

It could be just about anything that's loose mechanically....  although when you're driving you're more likely to hear things in the drivers compartment.

My first guess would be that either the retaining clip on the shift lever is loose or the shifter knot is loose on the shaft.  

I'd suggest taking an assistant for a ride and while you drive safely have the assistant listen around to pin down the noise.


Cheers,

Jim