"whirring" noise in vicinity of alternator

[unicornlori]

HELP! I just bought a '98 X with the V-8. there is a noise that closely resembles that of a dry power steering pump. It seems to be coming from somewhere under the alternator. Thought it was the problem, but it tested good. Any ideas where to look next????

 

[je5]

Disconnect the serpentine belt and run briefly to see if you can isolate it. You may need a stephoscope or at least a long screwdriver with your ear to it to locate the exact area. Even if the alternator is charging it could still have a bad bearing. Is it extremely hot to touch?

 

[unicornlori]

havent touched it to see yet. it almost seems though, that the sound is traveling from below it. do you think a tension pulley could mimic that sound? By the way I had the alt. tested at an auto parts store, they also didn't think it sounded quite like an alt. bearing, but I'll try the touch test.thanks

 

[Turdle]

Remove serpentine and run engine briefly to isolate- eliminate the camshaft position sensor. It makes noise when bad even with belt off. If noise goes away with belt removed, rotate each pulley-idler by hand, you might feel or reacreate it. V-8's are notorious for the 1st item.
clicky here

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=155206&highlight=camshaft+position+sensor+video

If the noise is there with belt removed, engine running, check back for sure

 

[unicornlori]

If it is the camshaft sensor, I'm guessing we're looking at a hefty repair bill,huh?

 

[je5]

If it is the camshaft sensor, I'm guessing we're looking at a hefty repair bill,huh?

Around $60 for the part.

 

[Turdle]

Around $60 for the part.

Where can you get one for 60 bux??????
The sensor itself is, but the shaft drive is what wears-squeaks.
The trick is re-instalation. It requires a 20 dollar tool

http://tools.batauto.com/index.php?...il&PHPSESSID=0c56fed5f99d3b4246d4b0c45b9ca3dd

 

[unicornlori]

it doesn't sound like a repair for a novice to try. Is there extensive labor involved?

 

[Turdle]

it doesn't sound like a repair for a novice to try. Is there extensive labor involved?

It requires some knowledge, no not for a novice. How inclined are you. I was just discussing this with 410 fortune

2 threads
first one is my experience and his, is kind of funny at first
2nd is 410 replacing his today
I'll edit with them, you look ok?

 

[unicornlori]

I've seen the term "squeak" used a couple times on this thread. the sound I hear is much more of a whirring , or hi buzzing sound.

 

[unicornlori]

I can get around pretty good on some mechanical issues, but time is my biggest problem. don't want to get in over my head

 

[Turdle]

before we go any further, grab a 16 mm wrench and socket with ratchet of all kinds(so you have one that reaches good. It is what loosens the spring tensioner, right under alternator turn it clockwise to slacken belt, and remove the belt.
run engine, if it is quiet you are good.
Now spin the pulleys

20 minutes tops and you will know


edited

 

[unicornlori]

before we go any further, grab a 16 mm wrench and socket with ratchet of all kinds(so you have one that reaches good. It is what loosens the spring tensioner, right under alternator turn it clockwise to slacken belt, and remove the belt.
run engine, if it is quiet you are good.
Now spin the pulleys

20 minutes tops and you will know


edited

Thanks for the info.! its a little late to do tonight, but first thing in the a.m., I'll try your advice. Thanks again!!