Got this terrible freakin scary noise from the Passat engine compartment. Stopped and lifted the bonnet. It sounded as though it was coming from the engine rocker cover area so I took off the oil filler cap and saw oil splattering about; checked the oil level and there was certainly oil there. Felt the alternator and it seemed OK although the noise did *I THINK* settle down if I held the alternator bracket - not really sure. The noise did NOT seem to increase as I revved the engine - strange. On the way home -for no apparent reason- the noise disappeared and the car drove fine. There was no hint of anything when used it the previous day and I covered about 70 miles. At home I checked/ tightened the alternator bolts and they seemed OK. SPOOKY! I have not had the need to drive it today.
Any ideas what it could be so I can tackle it BEFORE it either gets worse or breaks down.
1990 "H" reg. Passat estate 16v 2.0L petrol manual.