is this possible ?

[jmangrum]

on my 99 caravan with the 3.0 when i have the ac on and i use the power steering i hear alot of noise. it only does it with the ac on but it is on a separate belt . im very confused over this as i cant tell exactly where its at. the compressor doesnt seem to be making any excessive vibration . i had two mechanics listen to it and one said it was the flex plate and the other said loose or cracked flywheel or internal engine problems. is it possible for the compressor to act up when tou turn the wheels ? thanks jeff

[Stretch58]

What kind of noise? Squealing or what? The one thing common to both is the crankshaft pulley. You might want to verify belt tension on both belts.

[RickMN]

Broken flex plates are a known problem with this engine. The part is cheap ($50), but the labor is a killer (4 hrs). You have to remove the transmission. The sounds get louder when the A/C and power steering is used because of the added torque of the compressor and PS pump. To check it out, use an automotive stethoscope down near the starter while the engine is running and A/C on. Place the metal probe on the bellhousing and then on the rear of the engine block. If that's where the noise is coming from, you'll hear it loud and clear. Then check with the scope at the front of the crankshaft and compare the noise levels.

[jmangrum]

its kind of a knock or a rattle . both belts are tight

[jmangrum]

i wanted to let everybody know the flexplate was broke behind the reinforcing plate. thanks for all your help !!!