95 Escort engine noise...timing belt??

[Bric]

I have a 95 'scort that is making a rapping sound that seems to be coming from under the timing belt cover. Sounds like something is loose and is hitting the housing (non-metallic sound). Wife complained of a drop in power and then the noise started. She made it home no problem and the car starts and runs. Just that noise. No engine codes, lights, or anything. Any ideas?? Thanks for taking the time to read!!

Bric

[daleb9]

Hi, Bric. You're probably going to have to remove the timing belt cover in any case, so bite the bullet. Got to remove the three bolts for the cover, and the engine mount bolt so you can jack the engine up to get the cover off.

Probably a disintegrating belt.

[GTP Dad]

It could be the timing belt adjuster going bad and allowing slack in the timing belt. I would get this repaired as soon as possible because the belt could slip or break causing damage to the engine.

[daleb9]

Tensioner. Never have seen a timing belt tensioner that I liked, but I had unkind thoughts about Ford and 'better ideas' for some time after seeing how they stuck it on the water pump. Tightening two 10mm head bolts is all it takes to adjust it, it's the position of the thingies that makes it difficult. But actually, getting the cover off is two thirds of the job. The belt should be replaced probably, and the crankshaft pulley can be a chore too.