Howdy all,
I have an 86 GN...with a ticking noise that's driving me up the wall. I had a short block put in it last year and it's been running very strong. I took a roadtrip from San Antonio to Mobile and back, ran great. Just a couple days ago out of the blue I get this ticking noise coming from around the serpentine belt area. I replaced a practically brand new belt with yet another one..no change. Jacked it up and took a screwdriver and flashlight and looked and listened...several times. No signs of any scrubbing or rubbing. The ticking noise speeds up with engine rpms and it seems to get louder after the car warms up. Took the belt off again, found no play in any of the pulleys, tensioner spring is strong, no wiggles, wobbles, etc. Belt back on...ticking still there. I researched the archives and found a post mentioning the crank sensor rubbing. Anyone else experienced this one? I doubt it's anything internal or "major" at this point but this is my daily driver right now and I don't want to make things worse...I've just driven it as necessary so far. It's running hard...but ticking.
Thanks in advance, Dave
Two things you may try before more major surgery. Pull the belt/ start it and see if your noise is still there. If it's not, you might check the big cast aluminum bracket that supports the alternator & A/C to the head & block. I've seen a couple of those loose and make some noise.
As John said start the engine up without the belt on. Just don't let it run too long. If the noise is gone rotate the belt pulleys by hand and feel for roughness. If noise is still there check the cam sensor. You should also get an automotive stethoscope, they are cheap and much more effective.
One time the bolt came out of my intercooler bracket and that was making a noise...
Hi again,
thanks for the suggestions. I looked at the belt and pulleys one more again...but everything was normal. Jacked it up and crawled under it again to check out the crank sensor and it seemed okay. I grabbed it to see if it was loose and at first it seemed fine, but with a little tug it snapped straight back about 1/16 - 1/8 inch. Not much play left and right, but it snaps forward or backward that little bit. I "snapped" it backwards to the furthest most point away from the crank pulley and took a couple small tie wraps and cinched it in place. Cranked up the beast and all is quiet. I guess the crank pulley was scrubbing against it just that little bit. Now for part two....I looked up the crank sensor on the Autozone page and they only list the Wells part...not the AC Delco. Anyone know if it makes a difference? I've read many times about using AC Delco parts for best performance, I'd have to order one. Thanks again for the input.
Order from one of our vendors. They know what is needed. You probably need a new bracket as well as a sensor.
Performance no, reliabilty yes! I have talked to so many guys about problems with non GM or A/C Delco parts. Sensors, moduels and coils seem to be a problem with other manufactures. If your sensor has never been changed you will also need a mounting bracket and screw to accept the third design GM sensor. It was improved so a leaking water pump and hot coolant didn't take it out.
go to the turbo regal web site discussion group hot air 84 86 crant sensor hot air replacement! It is #22 down!