'noise' persists after changing pulleys & belt...

darthracer777 · 12-17-2007, 07:28 AM

I have a 2003 Taurus (137,000 miles), 3.0 V-6 OHV engine. I had a 'noise' problem before I changed the belt. I decided to replace the idler pulley and the tensioner pulley. I screwed up the tensioner puller when attempting to take it off. So, I had to buy an aftermarket tensioner assy to replace the stock unit. After installing the tensioner assy, idler pulley, and new serpintine belt, the noise quit for a while....maybe a day. Then, the 'squeaky' noise returned. Not much noise while idling, but at cruise speed, the noise is 'steady'....it doesn't increase, that much, with rpm. Just a steady, irritatiing noise.

I do have the correct belt. So, I don't know how it could be 'loose'.

What could be the problem?

waylowrider · 12-17-2007, 09:54 AM

Being that you replaced the hard to check pulleys, that only leaves the alternator, power steering and ac compressor pulley bearings to make noise. You could use an auto technician stethoscope to listen for which pulley is squeaking. A long screwdriver pressed against the housings will sometimes work also.

gemini6kl · 12-17-2007, 11:41 AM

Try the cam shaft position synchroniser, i had a squeaky noise like it was coming from a pulley or belt in the engine for a while,, i changed he belt and sound was still there and later found out it was the cam shaft position synchroniser. Its a small metal shaft part with gears on it . appears it a popular problem with the tauruses.

darthracer777 · 12-17-2007, 12:50 PM

I did try the 'soap' method. While the engine is running, I pressed a bar of soap on the belt for about a minute. This allowed several layers of soap to be applied to the belt. After that, for about 10 - 15 miles, there was no noise coming from the engine compartment. So, that's why I still think it has something to do with the belt.

How about I put a slightly shorter belt on....maybe 1/4 in. smaller? Maybe the aftermarket tensioner is not working properly?

JayKay · 01-03-2008, 03:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gemini6kl

Try the cam shaft position synchroniser, i had a squeaky noise like it was coming from a pulley or belt in the engine for a while,, i changed he belt and sound was still there and later found out it was the cam shaft position synchroniser. Its a small metal shaft part with gears on it . appears it a popular problem with the tauruses.

Where is this part located?

Which engine & how many miles?

Can you be sure that the noise is caused by this part?

Did you replace it yourself? Easy or difficult, Expensive?

Thanks, John aka JayKay

ABE · 01-03-2008, 03:51 PM

The cam shaft position synchronizer is located where the distributor used to be, and it can make a lot of noise.

JayKay · 01-03-2008, 04:05 PM

My 2004 with 85K miles started making an intermittent squeak, sounds like a belt but sounds can be misleading. Is this synchronizer a likely source?

ABE · 01-05-2008, 02:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JayKay

My 2004 with 85K miles started making an intermittent squeak, sounds like a belt but sounds can be misleading. Is this synchronizer a likely source?

Here is a link that will help you to determine if the synchronizer is your problem. It also contains information on how to replace it. Sounds doable and a probable cure for your problem. Here it is:
Vulcan Cam Synchronizer/sensor Replacement - Taurus Car Club of America

Hope this helps.

jfjohn · 12-17-2007, 10:00 PM

did you use a motorcraft belt? probably would be ok to go after market but a motorcraft belt should rule that out.

darthracer777 · 12-18-2007, 06:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jfjohn

did you use a motorcraft belt? probably would be ok to go after market but a motorcraft belt should rule that out.

No, I used the 'high dollar' belt sold by Advance Auto. I think the brand name was Danco or Dayco...something like that. A motocraft belt would work better? How is the design different from other belts? I imagine it costs a little more.