Sound like it racing but only going 20M

[t_DSM]

While driving the engine sounds as though is running at high RPM however the RPM gage reads normal. All this started a few days after our first snow and the TB was drivem at reasonable speed in 4wd.
The Tran fluid is clean and reads full.
Thanks.

T_DSM

[rodeo02]

A roaring sound from the engine compartment is usually a failed fan clutch on the GMT360 chassis. Very common. The fan sticks full on, engine sounds like it's racing and it can give the illusion of trans issues as well.

Joel

[shawnph]

I can also verify it's your fan clutch. Mine went out at 3,000 miles. I took it to 3 different dealers before I could get one to replace it. It sounded like I was driving a leafblower down the road until I got up to about 35mph. The RPM gauge was completely normal, just like you describe. It had to sit overnight before the problem would return. It wouldn't do it once the engine had warmed up, even if it was shut off for a couple of hours.

They finally replaced the fan clutch and the noise hasn't returned since. I'm now at 23k miles.

I'll never buy another GM, just because it was so hard to get them to admit there was a problem and to fix it. I specifically asked them about fan clutch problems and they said it never happens. "You're the first."

Yeah, right. Look at the 1000's of people complaining on the internet about it.

I also have to say this is the most user unfriendly engine I've ever seen. I could replace the air filter on my last vehicle lickety split. You have to be double jointed to pry the air filter out of the Trailblazer. And one of the screws is a royal pain to get to.

[t_DSM]

So this fan cluch is it something that I can replace? Is there special tools that are needed? The dealers want $800 for the job, I'm sure that's if "everyting goes smouth". I found the part at a local auto store for $200.
Never done this before, but I have done other repair work on cars. Is it a simple bolt on and bolt off? Need your

T_DSM

[Jethro]

You will need a special tool to remove that clutch fan. I was fortunate to have a warranty to fix that.

[rodeo02]

Originally Posted by t_DSM

So this fan cluch is it something that I can replace? Is there special tools that are needed? The dealers want $800 for the job, I'm sure that's if "everyting goes smouth". I found the part at a local auto store for $200.
Never done this before, but I have done other repair work on cars. Is it a simple bolt on and bolt off? Need your

T_DSM

I have not done one yet, but here is how haynes says to do it, borrowed from T-Blazed, a fine gent from another forum:

Make sure the engine is cold.

"Note: A special fan clutch wrench is required (GM#46406 or Equivalent)

1.Remove the bolts and push pins that attach the intake air baffle to the radiator support,then remove the baffle. (On 2002s only)
2.Disconnect the transmission cooler lines at the engine bracket and fan shroud.
3.Disconnect the electro-viscous clutch electrical connector from the shroud.
4.Remove the upper radiator hose from the radiator;be prepared for coolant spillage.
5.Remove the fan clutch hub from the water pump by turning it counterclockwise.
6.Unclip the shroud from the radiator side panels then tilt the condenser and radiator forward.This will be easier if someone assists you.
7.Remove the fan and shroud as one unit by lifting straight up as the condenser and radiator are being held in the forward position.
8.The fan can now be unbolted from the clutch, if necessary.Be sure to tighten the fan-to-clutch bolts to the torque listed in this chapter's specifications(20 Ft.-Lbs.)!
9.Installation is reverse removal,Tighten the fan hub nut to the torque listed in this chapter's specifications(41 FT.-Lbs)!
10. Check the coolant,adding as necessary to bring it to the appropiate level."

You will want a replacement fan clutch GM p/n 15293048

G/luck
Joel

[J-Mech]

That pretty well covers it unless the fan clutch has a large nut on it. If it does you will need a wrench to fit it whitch a local parts store would carry for purchase or rent. Also if that is the case remember it usually has left handed threads

[rodeo02]

Yep, to do step 5, you will need a fan clutch wrench set. You can get them at any auto parts store, tool store or harbor freight tools. You thread the huge hex head CCW to remove, while holding the water pump pulley steady by the hex that hold the pulley on.

Joel

[t_DSM]

Thanks for the guidence, a couple more questions.

1. After its been replaced is there a need to reprogram the computer?
2. How long should a job like this take?

Once again thanks for the input.

T_DSM

[corning_d3]

I'd say the average person who hasn't done it before could do it in around 2hrs. You can rent the tools from many parts stores to do the job. Maybe save some dough.