2000 Rodeo 3.2 power problems

I've been having some problems lately and i wanted to get an idea of what might be wrong before I take it to the shop...

First of, I have almost 72,000 miles, automatic trans, and 4wd. I currently have very little power under approx. 3500 rpm- after that, I've got full power. Also, there's a vibrating-type noise at 2500 and then again at 3500 rpms. The noise kind of reminds me of an AC compressor- the sound when you floor it with the AC on. It happens in all gears, but doesn't happen when I rev the engine in Park/Neutral.

My first thoughts were the timing belt- since the manual recommends replacing at 75,000, or possibly the spark plugs/wires.

Any thoughts? Thanks in advance.

The vibrating type noise could be the timing belt tensor, but I haven't heard of any +98's having that problem (and you only have 70K).

Most folks around here change the timing belt at 100-120k. And most note that the belt looks to be in good shape when then pull it out.

If you still have the OEM plugs it would be a good time to change them (steel treads, into an alumin block do not like high mileage).

also you don't have plug wires (you have coils over each plug).

It could be a plugged EGR or Cat that is causing reduced power.

Thanks for reply, I'll check those out. Will I void my warranty if I don't change the timing belt until 100k since the manual says 75k?

Are you getting a check engine light? Are you sure your AT is starting out in first gear? Try manually shifting 1-2-3-D to see if the condition goes away. You could have a funky range/mode sensor on the trans.
G/luck
Joel

Thanks for the reply Joel.

I've tried shifting manually, and I do get the same thing. The check engine light isn't on, but will occasionally come on when I get low on gas. I figured that was somewhat normal, but maybe I'll take it in the next time the light comes on and get a reading on it.

Thanks for the ideas.

The MIL coming on when low on fuel indicates the common problem of a faulty fuel sending unit, this is covered under warranty, but doubtful it has anything to do with your original problem.