Engine noise on a 1990 Camry DX

[Sensenig]

Hello Everyone;

I have a 1990 Toyota Camry DX with 169,000 miles on it. I started to hear a noise that I think is coming from the engine a few weeks back. I only occured when I was doing 70 mph. Over the last few weeks the noise have been heard at lower and lower speeds. Now I can hear it at 30 MPH. I only hear it when I an accelerating. I can put the car in neutral and floor (even when moving at 60MPH and I will not hear it).

I took it to my mechanic and he thought it was my lower engine. He also told me that my timing belt was loose and may be hitting the side. The current timing belt was replaced at about 88,000 miles. He said that I should just get a new car and not put any money into this vehicle. The car has plenty of power.

I plan to get a new car and would like to give this car to an old friend but I would like to fix the problem. Any ideas what could be making this sound.

Thanks
Carl