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[Phil B]

Hey everyone, need some help if poss. Searched the forum and couldn't find this problem.

I just bought a 98(s) 2.5 reflection petrol/manual with 67k and FSH, timing belt changed at 40k.
I got it home yesterday no problems, drove lovely. But now when I start it after a minute or so i get a repeating screech from the engine. Quite a slow repetition like once a second when idling so it sounds like a belt rubbing or something. I'm scared it's the timing belt or something that will cause some nasty damage.

Any ideas?
Cheers
Phil

[Grumpy]

Don't run the engine until you've checked the tensioners. If this is
the problem, and they fail, you'll bend your valves on the pistons
when the Belt slips.

Not saying this is the problem, but be very wary until you rule out
cam belt problems.

I think one of our Scottish members (Mike Dundee?) had a similar
problem recently.

Anyway, some V6 gurus will be along soon to give you a check list
to methodically work through.

[CaptainZok]

As a quick diagnostic how about taking off the aux belt and briefly running the engine to see if the noise stops? Might give you a clue.

[Markie]

As a quick diagnostic how about taking off the aux belt and briefly running the engine to see if the noise stops? Might give you a clue.

Absolutely - 15mm socket to release tension on aux belt on the tensioner - slip the belt off and run the engine. If that noise is still there DONT run the car as it may be timing belt / tensioner related.

If the noise persists pop the cambelt cover off ( or at least undo top bolts) and have a look into see if the belt is on okay and if there is any slack.

At that point let us know your findings but i would be very very reluctant to drive any more...

[Phil B]

Haven't had time to even look at it guys, and I'm afraid I had to put it into the local garage to get the cam cover gaskets done (small leak on offside bank) so I asked him to check it out for me.

I know what a chicken way out but I hardly have time to wipe my arse this week. I'll let you know the results when it gets back today!

[Markie]

fair enough, come and let us know the diagnosis and cost prior to agreeing the work  

[Phil B]

Ok the noise has gone! I wonder if it was to do with the oil being low when I brought it home. I topped it up and left it on the drive after hearing it, and now after running it to the garage and back it's sounding fine. A dry bearing in the top end?

I will have to just see what happens and get a belt kit ordered.

I now have to decide if I'm going to keep her and do a couple of jobs or move her on, as it sounds like I bought a bit of a dog. See post 'should it stay or should it go'