thnks 4 the answers letting me know its the bearings :] can i keep running it for another month before changing the bearings or alternator??
2007-05-05 03:55:52 · 6 answers · asked by dan28_of_ny 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Whining noise under the hood, 8 of 10 times it is the idler pulley. Use a piece of tubing or hose to make sure the alternator is the problem or if it is something else. Hold one end to your ear and put the other end on the components. The loudest is the problem. An alternator is very much more expensive than the pulley that is usually the problem. As far as the answer of how long, it depends on how loud the noise is and how much you drive the van. May last 10,000 miles or may come apart or lock up the next time you start it.
2007-05-05 04:19:09 · answer #1 · answered by wetnwildff 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't run it that long, as that bearing may eventually seize, or come apart. This is an issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible, especially if you do a lot of driving. The whining, however, could be the inner workings of the alternator itself, as it may be working harder than it should be due to age and use. Regardless, it is time to get it done before it comes apart and costs you a drive belt and tow call as well.
2007-05-05 04:09:46 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I had a case with a car that had a blown fuse in the alternator circuit. It would not let the alternator apply field to the charging circuit. I would also check the alternator drive belt to see if the belt is glazed/shiny smooth. if the belt is slipping it will not drive the alternator with the added load to provide charge. the voltage light will come on when the charging voltage is below battery voltage. the alarm will trigger and could be part of your charging problem...don m
2016-05-21 01:30:38 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would also check the tensioner before replacing the alternator. It's fairly common on the 3.8 Windstars and since it is so close to the alternator it would be easy to mistake where the noise is coming from. The good news is they are cheaper to replace and it is fairly simple. Either way I would get it fixed asap. Either one locking up is going to leave you stranded.
2007-05-05 04:51:36 · answer #4 · answered by RED FIVE O 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sure, if you dont mind being stranded when the alternator locks up and breaks the belt.
2007-05-05 04:06:48 · answer #5 · answered by Ron B 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most likely yes. That's no guarantee, but chances are you will be ok. Just don't be surprised if it locks up and tears up an expensive serpentine belts. good luck
2007-05-05 04:00:58 · answer #6 · answered by Fordman 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋