Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Noisy, Now Quieter???

[ErniePink]

My '02 3500 HO has been really noisy, mostly from the drivers side of engine, sourced near/at injector pump. Engine had a real low growl that seemed to relent some after 30-40 minutes of driving. Power, even with the Edge EZ has been just OK. It has been somewhat of a chore to drive, especially in Phoenix traffic. And it has been this way since new and never ever sounded like other 24 valve engines.



But in last few days it has quieted down considerably, power and response are both up noticeably. It's a day/night difference. I just turned 30K and can't beleive it's the same rig. Anybody got a clue what may have changed or is this just magic. No new fuel, engine service or updates. Same roads, loads and conditions as before.



Had it in for "warranty check over" 2 months ago, complaing about excessive noise, TSB thermostat change etc. Service tech admitted it was very noisy, especially at start up and at idle but all tests and checks he could perform were in spec. No codes set. I left with same noise complaint as when I drove in. I started working on replacing truck with new one when this change occured. Now I'm a happy camper. It sounds like a 24 valver now. Assuredly, I don't want to look a gift horse in the mouth but I can't help but wonder... ... .



Please, any ideas?

 

[Bratton]

Mine has always had cycles of loud and quiet operation. It is really strange, sometimes I'll get the family in for a long road trip and we can all converse reasonably well and other times it will be really loud and irritating. There seems to be no correlation between speed, temperature, towing or not towing. It is engine noise not road or wind that is the problem.

 

[StakeMan]

Ever notice if there was a difference in fuel economy when it is either loud or quiet?

 

[dslmacdown]

I had something similair happen to me. When I bought my '02 it was very loud at first and then quieted down a little. Then one day I started it up and was driving around and I got to thinking "Hey this thing is suddenly queiter and a little stronger". I think it was the engine working on the break in. Now with only 18K miles it seems to get stronger everyday.



Chris

 

[Bratton]

My Engine control module failed recently and the dealer installed a new one. The truck has been noticeably quieter and seems to be a lot more responsive since getting the new computer. I am hoping that maybe the original computer was defective all along and was responsible for some of the truck's weird behavior.

 

[mbaston]

how about fuel????? Mine is much louder when running winter or #1 fuel. Quiets down a lot when we switch to #2. Also, you loose about 20% of your performance with winter fuel.

 

[Bratton]

The variations in noise level I experienced often happened with the same tank of fuel. I don't have one of those trip computers so I have no idea if mileage is different when the truck is running loud. BD

 

[ErniePink]

TO ALL REPLIERS:



We don't get winter fuel here in Phoenix and since I haven't fueled in last 700+ miles (I only fuel into my 65 gal. Transfer Flow fuel tank), I don't believe fuel is behind these changes. Of course, truck is some lighter with the lessened fuel load due to consumption but that wouldn't cause it to quiet down and run like a raped ape. Yes, "avg" mileage based on change in onboard confuser readings is up almost 2 mpg in 80 miles. Some "instant mpg" readings are over 30 mpg. I know this confuser is inaccurate but never have I seen readings this high, except going downhill.



It's still running stronger, quieter and more civil. It's a pleasure to drive, much more than when it was new. The change is so huge I am almost afraid to get too far from home for fear something is gonna let go. Anyway, I thank you all for you interest and believe the admonition "Go figure" applies here. I'm enjoyin' the ride don'tcha know.

 

[Big A]

I know the Edge stuff makes them a little louder. When I got rid of my EZ, the truck seemed to quite down some.

Big A