Chances are it is either an idler pulley or it could be a lifter. To check, remove the belt and start the engine (ONLY LONG ENOUGH TO SEE IF THE SOUND IS GONE. THE ENGINE WILL OVERHEAT WITHOUT THE BELT AND CAN CAUSE OTHER DAMAGE). If the sound is still there, chances are it is a lifter. If it is gone, check all pullies to determine where the noise is coming from. It could be many things. First, make sure the oil is full. It could be a lifter / rocker arm. Also, remove the serp belt and start the engine to see if the sound is gone. IF it is gone, then the sound is coming from one of the accessories run from the belt. Check for bearing issues and play in the pullies. NOTE: If you start the engine with the belt off, only run it a few seconds to see if the sound is gone.
Feb 10, 2011 at 11:52 PM
