Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Possible bearing noise

[Flyboy]

Has anyone experienced this problem? Between 1700 and 1800 rpms only after the engine is up to normal temperature, I have begun to hear a noise like a bad bearing. 100 rpms either way makes the noise go away. Using a dowel rod and my ear I thought that I had isolated it to the alternator. However, after removing the belt, the alternator seems to turn very smoothly and freely by hand. I sure hate to throw money at the alternator on just a guess. Does anyone have a suggestion? Thanks in advance!

 

[RacinDuallie]

Try spraying some good spray oil on the serpentine belt tensioner bearing and see if the noise goes away... ... that's usually the culprit... or check the weep hole on the water pump- if moist then the bearing for the pump is on its way out-change out pump then- either way both are easy jobs to do.

 

[Flyboy]

Thanks for your suggestions, RacinDuallie. The seep hole shows no signs of seepage. The gatorback belt has just a few thousand miles on it, but I'll try the lub on it. I'm about to leave for an extended trip so I'd sure like to fix whatever is wrong first.

 

[Lsfarm]

Try this

Did the noise appear with the new serpentine belt?? Mark the front of the belt, remove and reinstall reversed. Some times the belts are not made well and are like a bad tire with a 'wobble' built in. This irregularity can show up as a noise. Take the belt back if faulty, or keep as an emergency spare.



Good luck, Greg L

 

[B.G. Smith]

Try spraying some good spray oil on the serpentine belt tensioner bearing and see if the noise goes away... ... that's usually the culprit... or check the weep hole on the water pump- if moist then the bearing for the pump is on its way out-change out pump then- either way both are easy jobs to do.

Flyboy, please note that he didn't say spray oil on the belt but the belt tensioner pulley bearing. You do not want oil on the belt. My tensioner pulley went out at about 60,000 miles, made high pitched bearing squeal. Got mine at Advance auto parts for around 20 dollars. bg

 

[HEMI®Dart]

If your idler pulley is bad, a bunch of us have replaced it with the Practical Solutuions idler pulley. Real heavy duty, Steel construction, bearings are replaceable if they ever wear out. A nice product.



http://www.psdieselproducts.bizland.com/index.html

 

[Flyboy]

Thanks, fellows for your suggestions. TDR members are always very willing to help. A great bunch! I tried lubricating the belt tensioner bearing, but it made no difference. Then I put my old serpentine belt back on. Still had the same noise. While the belt was off I turned the water pump by hand and found it a little rough and making a little noise. So I will get a new water pump tomorrow and install it. Thanks again!

 

[RacinDuallie]

Thanks, fellows for your suggestions. TDR members are always very willing to help. A great bunch! I tried lubricating the belt tensioner bearing, but it made no difference. Then I put my old serpentine belt back on. Still had the same noise. While the belt was off I turned the water pump by hand and found it a little rough and making a little noise. So I will get a new water pump tomorrow and install it. Thanks again!

Flyboy-
It was telling you it's time was near!! , don't worry about it we're happy to help ya!