New Noise!!??

[unleadedbrew]

There is a strange noise coming from ?? under the clam. It is hard to describe, but is a mix between a 'hum', 'howl' and a 'whirr'. Almost like a turbo sound. It's been intermittent for about 6 months and pretty loud. I thought it was coming from the smog pump, so I replaced that the other day. Still there. It mostly happens at idle and when I give it some throttle, it goes away for X length of time. I really can't pinpoint it and this is the only car I've ever heard it on. Maybe a mechanic's stetho? Anyway, have any of youse guys ever had the pleasure of listening to this type noise? :confused


Gordon

 

[Ken]

Diagnosing obscure noises via the Internet - easiest thing in the world! :eyerole

"Hums", "howls", and "whirrs" indicate a rotating part most of the time. You already replaced the AIR pump, so I'd check the alternator as the next step. Use a mechanics stethoscope or a long screwdriver, preferably with a wooden handle, to pinpoint the source. A length of vacuum hose will do the trick too, when trying to pinpoint noises in a noisy environment.

 

[Mart]

Yup, I had a noise that sounded like that, for about 1-2 weeks before the Alternator went south, and left me stranded.

Also check the power steering, it can make a whine noise if the fluid is low.

Mart

 

[rrubel]

Ditto the water pump. If the bearings are starting to go, they'll whine/whir...
[RICHR]

 

[unleadedbrew]

Diagnosing obscure noises via the Internet - easiest thing in the world! :eyerole


And as usual, you came up with the ways to trace it down. Once again, thanks, Ken.

At least it didn't sound like escaping methane gas!!!



Also thanks, Mart and Rich.........It is in the vacinity of the alternator, but I'd never heard one sound like that, so I went with the pump. I'll use Ken's doctor's toys and track this one down.

Gordon

 

[rrubel]

If you need a new water pump, I've got a low-mileage one gathering dust...
[RICHR]

 

[unleadedbrew]

Thanks, Rich.. ...I'll keep that on file. Of course it hasn't made that noise since I asked about it, so I'm still where I was. :eyerole

Gordon

 

[Paul T]

Yup, I had a noise that sounded like that, for about 1-2 weeks before the Alternator went south, and left me stranded.

Also check the power steering, it can make a whine noise if the fluid is low.

Mart

My memory fails me again. What year was it that there was a problem with the power steering hose? As I recall, there was a vibration, resonance, etc. and the hose had to be replaced.