I have a 97 Dodge Caravan. I have a horrible squeeking sound coming from underneath the hood. It is the s belt tensioner. My husband has tried to replace but does not know how to take it off. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you...Also, how hard is it to replace lifters. I also have a lifter tic. Thanks!!!!!
acton mike
02-27-2007, 09:24 PM
the toughest part about this process is loosening the tensioner
I believe a 15mm wrench is needed but most 15mm combination or open ended wrenches are not long enough to get leverage
some part stores sell a special tool - in essence a wrench with a long handle
I bought a cheap chinese import 15mm wrench, cut one end off it and slipped a piece or iron pipe over the end to give me leverage - works a treat
once the tension is off the belt, it is easy to get the belt off
If I recall, the bolt that holds the tension on is a bit of a bugger to get at; I believe I loosened the alternator off and move if out of the way to give me access - DO disconnect the battery first
regarding the ticking - be sure it is valve/tappet ticking and not the injectors - they can give off what sounds like ticking
gsmagnum
02-27-2007, 10:38 PM
I suggest replacing the belt with a Goodyear Gatorback. I have had great success with these after being frusterated with Napa belts.
webbee
02-28-2007, 04:23 AM
If it's lifter tic, I use Marvel Mystery Oil in the crankcase. Frees and cleans the lower end right up. You can also try it in the gas and it will clean and lube the upper cylinder/head/intake/injector. I also like Chevron's injector cleaner with Techron for cleaning injectors.
Two products which do what they claim...isn't that amazing.
Javert
02-28-2007, 07:34 AM
I have a 97 Dodge Caravan. I have a horrible squeeking sound coming from underneath the hood. It is the s belt tensioner. My husband has tried to replace but does not know how to take it off. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you...Also, how hard is it to replace lifters. I also have a lifter tic. Thanks!!!!!
This would be a perfect time to install the Gates fix kit. The part number for the one that fits your van is 38379K. It will take care of your noise problems and there is a full set of instructions in the box that will walk your husband through the simple job. The kit comes with a new tensioner, new idler as well as a new belt. You will not be disappointed, I can assure you of that.
jkbowen1021
03-01-2007, 11:29 AM
The belt was brand new when we bought the van about 5 months ago. I just need to replace the tensioner. I had the mechanic at work look at it, and he said the belt is is really good shape, no reason to change it. I just need to replace the tensioner. About the tick, I have already used the quiet lifter oil additive. It worked for a while, but the tick came back. It actually comes and goes when it wants. One day it will be really noticable and no there the next. I was also told that if I replace the lifters, I have to replace the cam, Is this true???? I know it is not the fuel injectors. When you open the hood, the sound is coming from under the valve cover. It is a really good car, other than the problems listed above, it runs awesome, great on gas, and a comfortable and smooth ride. I don't mind spending money on it, at least that is better then getting stuck in a car payment. I appreciate all the responses. Thank yoU!!!
acton mike
03-01-2007, 10:04 PM
some older chrysler engines, like the famous slant six, would run for ages with rackety lifters/valve train noise
I suspect the 3.3/3.8 V6 may well do as well and it may be a case that if it ain't broke then don't fix it
any one else have an idea on this
mrbizness1
03-02-2007, 09:27 PM
some older chrysler engines, like the famous slant six, would run for ages with rackety lifters/valve train noise
I suspect the 3.3/3.8 V6 may well do as well and it may be a case that if it ain't broke then don't fix it
any one else have an idea on this
Many 2.2 motors in the k cars also had small engine knocks and ran forever.
