2003 V6 Harmonic Balancer

[03Explo20]

I've been having issues lately with the XLT where I'm hearing a "popping" type noise that sounds like a heat shield plus a sound like gears working against each other when they spin. I checked and triple checked all heat shields and see none loose. With the hood open today, I did notice the popping plus the gear sound coming from the harmonic balancer. The belt is on the track and there is a very slight wobble but nothing like one would expect from a bad balancer. The truck has 83k miles. Does the popping sound sound normal; for a bad balancer?

I'm thinking of just going ahead and trying to change it out on my own. I'm a little worried about removing the old one as I hear that broken bolts on the removal tool are common. Does anyone have any tips or tricks I can use to accomplish this with as little headache as possible? I'm also thinking of popping a new water pump on while it's apart.

Is it easier to drain and remove the radiator and fan to have enough space to work or can this be done with just removing the fan? Again, i'm looking for the easiest way to avoid problems as I can't have the XLT sitting idle because I f#$ked something up royally.

Thanks, fellas....

 

[NigonKouk]

Easier with the radiator removed and use WD-40 and tap on it as you pull it out. Never heard of this popping sound but the grinding may be normal, that may be coming from the alternator.

 

[donalds]

Sound like keys
Louder when colder
About 1500 rpm
Park next to a house and listen

???

 

[03Explo20]

Sound like keys
Louder when colder
About 1500 rpm
Park next to a house and listen

???

No, actually "louder" when warm and in gear! Really weird!

I actually bought some belt spray today and doused the pulleys and belt and the noise is minimal now. The "pop" is still there though. I ordered a new balancer as well as water pump to change it all out but cancelled the orders and will just drive it until it blows up.

Thanks, guys!

 

[donalds]

Make a video
I own a99 to

 

[TechGuru]

Try replacing your idler pulley & tensioner pulley.

 

[03Explo20]

Try replacing your idler pulley & tensioner pulley.

I did order those just to see if it helps any. We'll see I guess.

** Changed out both today along with a new belt and the noise is still present when truck is pout in gear. It only does the noise when in gear. I'm going to have to investigate further or just leave things alone and see what happens.

This "popping" noise has to be some kind of a shield as it pops like that even when the engine is off until the truck cools down. Just been a SOB trying to nail down where!