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Stan_P
Dodge Dakota
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4/03/2007
12:04:03
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 Subject: Front Engine Noise
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Message:
1998 Dakota 4WD 3.9L
There is a noise coming from the front of the engine. It sounds like a bad bearing but, there are bearings in the following:tension idler, alternator, idle pulley, power steering pump, AC clutch and water pump.
I replaced the tension idler (cheap)and the water pump was replaced 2 years ago.
The question is how do you eliminate the noise source without replacing parts. Years ago, there were separate belts for these parts and by removing a belt you could do a process of elimination.
Is there a process of elimination method with serpentine belts?
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daddio
Dodge Dakota
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4/03/2007
12:20:21
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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Message:
mechanics stethiscope. or a really long handled screwdriver will help locate the culprit.
does it still make the noise if you remove the belt? if so, it could be a worn timing chain.
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Stan_P
Dodge Dakota
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4/03/2007
12:51:00
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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Message:
I tried the stethoscope, but it did not help. Timing chain was something I did not consider.
Thanks
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daddio
Dodge Dakota
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4/03/2007
13:50:59
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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take the belt off and try it. it won't hurt to run it a few minutes without the belt.
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Shoe
GenIII
4/03/2007
17:35:33
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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These engines are known for bad timing chains... and also Intake Plenum Gaskets!!! ERRRR!!!!!!!!!!!
'97 RC V6, 5spd, soon to be V8, 5spd!
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Stan_P
Dodge Dakota
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4/03/2007
18:56:20
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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I did remove the belt and ran the engine. No noise. I can eliminate the timing chain. My gut feeling is the idle pulley or alternator. I'm going to replace the pulley next since, it has to be less expensive than an alternator.
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daddio
Dodge Dakota
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4/04/2007
08:40:31
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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you should be able to check each individual item. i.e. idler, tensioner, etc. without the belt give each one a good turn. if it feels rough that's probably the culprit. also, check for side to side play.
glad to hear it wasn't the timing chain.
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Stan_P
Dodge Dakota
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4/05/2007
08:19:48
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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When I had the belt off, I gave the alternator pulley and idle pulley a spin. Both felt a little rough but, that is pretty subjective. Perhaps normal for truck with 90K miles.
I ordered an idle pulley from the dealer($36)so, I 'll replace it tomorrow.
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Stan_P
Dodge Dakota
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4/09/2007
12:14:23
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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Shame on me for thinking that a 2 year water pump would not be the problem. After tugging on the water pump pulley, I could see a lot of slop and movement. That was the culprit, which I replaced and the noise is gone.
Thanks for keeping me focussed Daddio.
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daddio
Dodge Dakota
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4/09/2007
12:34:32
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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sorry to hear it's the waterpump but glad to hear you found the problem. might want to change the tstat and that bypass hose while you're at it.
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do it all
Dodge Dakota
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4/09/2007
18:30:38
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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replace them all i did start with the timing chain get a coyles then do all the idler pullies,,,,,,its time to do them any who
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Stan_P
Dodge Dakota
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4/10/2007
12:08:15
| RE: Front Engine Noise
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Message:
Last year I replaced the bypass hose because I noticed coolant leaking down from that area. That did not fix the problem.
Replacing the water pump I put hi temp sealant on the threads because some of the bolts go through into the water jacket.
It looks as if the leak is coming from the timing chain cover. I'm thinking that it is from one of the bolts that goes thru into the water jacket.
Every 2 months I add a quart of 50/50 coolant mix to the radiator. That keeps me going until I do something about it.
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