Golf IV 1.4 16V Engine problem: clackers

Hello! On the Golf IV 1.4 16V from my buddy the following problem emerges: The engine Klackert and Nagelt in idle mode and when driving like a diesel or something like that. When we pulled off the first ignition cable the cracking was completely gone. Since my car has a mechanical, rotating ignition distributor in a distribution box, I am completely overwhelmed here, because the golf apparently has an electronically controlled ignition distribution. Who can help us here, or has experiences and a solution for the problem? PS: The car is built in 1999 (I think) has almost 110,000km on it and the control belt has already been made. Oil change is 13 months ago.