Trying to pinpoint noise

[player11]

I have a noise and trying to figure the source. 02 Rodeo, noise appears to be coming from the fan area..not the belt. It sounds like the fan is slightly out of whack, almost like a dryer slightly off balance. Anyone have any input what could be wrong?

[rodeo02]

Check the aluminum fan bracket, the triangular shaped thing the clutch fan is mounted to. Some call it a dummy waterpump. They have been known to crack near the mounting bolts and throw the fan out of alignment.

G/luck
Joel

[player11]

Originally Posted by rodeo02

Check the aluminum fan bracket, the triangular shaped thing the clutch fan is mounted to. Some call it a dummy waterpump. They have been known to crack near the mounting bolts and throw the fan out of alignment.

G/luck
Joel

Thanks, I will check that as soon as my wife gets back with the Rodeo...is that the only thing that could throw the fan out of alignment?..it definitely sounds like some kind of alignment problem with the fan.

[player11]

update..the fan and clutch have play in them...I can hold both ends of the fan and the fan and clutch will move back and forth...This has to be what is causing the vibratuon noise...but I don't see and bolts that can be tightened up. Of course, I can't see the front of the fan as it is up against radiator. any suggestions?

[rodeo02]

The bracket bolts to the engine block. A tiny bit of axial (in/out) movement is okay, but radial play is bad. The fan is probably hitting the shroud? It will eventually fly apart which will destroy the radiator as well. You may want to pull the serpentine belt off to troubleshoot. Check amigo-2K's FAQ's for procedures.

G/luck
Joel

[player11]

After closer inspection, your first response was correct...the triangular bracket is cracked in 2 spots near the top. Does ayone know whrre I can purchase a replacement....and is the vehicle save to drive?

[rodeo02]

I would call & mail order from www.stcharlesauto.com Maybe eBay as a last resort. I'd drive the truck as little as possible.

G/luck
Joel

[player11]

Well, St Charles wants $250 for the mounting bracket...can't believe that part would cost that much...ridiculous..They also had a ridiculous price of $250 for the clutch and a had to buy the fan with it for $87. Sounds like typical rip off dealer priced to me..don't know why everyone is pushing these guys.

[rodeo02]

In the past, i've found them to be as much as 50% cheaper than any other dealer. See if this outfit sells 1998+ fan brackets: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1997-...spagenameZWD1V I'd also call napa, carquest, autozone, advance auto, etc...

Joel

[player11]

Originally Posted by rodeo02

In the past, i've found them to be as much as 50% cheaper than any other dealer. See if this outfit sells 1998+ fan brackets: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1997-...spagenameZWD1V I'd also call napa, carquest, autozone, advance auto, etc...

Joel

Thanks..I have an E-mail in to that guy..$120 would be great..it appears to be the same part, but he only lists it good up to 1997's. St Charles quoted me the same price as my local dealer for the bracket..$254...Crazy price, but I might not have a choice..need a new clutch as well..know of any good online stores?...cheapest I can find is $111...but I remember seeing posts of people getting them for around $80.