Thanks for the reply guys.

Yeh, I realise what you mean about bearings and lack of oil but like I said, the oil was low, it wasn't low one month previously but i doubt it takes long to cause damage once the engine is running low on oil!

Im sure it's bearings from the noise but i am taking it to the garage tomorrow to have it confirmed either way.

Another quick question, does the focus ST170 engine drop straight in? They seem to be readily available for not too much. I think I'd rather go for dropping in a bigger more powerful engine in if possible as a base to work on for the future rather than spend an arm and a leg on upgrade parts for the standard engine.

Don't know why really, just a personal preference.

Thanks again.