Opinion on noise please

[NeilA2]

A2 2002 1.4 petrol 82,000 miles. Had it for a few months, great project and daily driving. Love it.
Next job to tackle - Driving from pull away and low speed I can hear a random sounding irregular deep rumble noise from deep in the dash / engine bay. Not loud but enough to be annoying.
No noise when just parked and idling or revving.
No noise if I press the clutch in and release.
Clutch feels smooth and engages nicely and I would say feels perfect in use.
But it if stationary with the engine running and hand brake on, press in the clutch, shift to first gear then gradually let out the clutch to start to engage the engine but not stall it, I can force the noise to occur.
Press the clutch back in and the noise stops.
It's not loud or exactly in time with the RPM, more of a burbling grumbling background noise.
I think it is the clutch release bearing as it seems slightly louder if I put my ear near the gear shifter / tunnel.
I think it also seems louder when starting from cold.
Anyone got anythoughts or experience?
Thanks for any advice.

 

[bix]

I got same issues same as you. I couldn't pinpoint the cause but want to change my old clutch to find out

 

[NeilA2]

I got same issues same as you. I couldn't pinpoint the cause but want to change my old clutch to find out

Thanks for the comment. I'm going to see if anyone has any thoughts on what it is and try to figure out how critical it is to get it fixed. In the meantime I'm going to figure out clutch replacement parts and then size up DIY or local garage replacement. It really does drive fine so it does not seem too urgent.

 

[dj_efk]

Sounds like it only occurs under a decent load - I’d start with checking all drivetrain mountings very carefully for excess movement, with the use of an assistant and the bonnet off.