Warbling noise - crankshaft pulley (i think)

[geoff eeles]

2012-08-12 14.08.34.jpgCircled in red is the housing for the crankshaft pulley, on the drivers side part of the engine. Between 1000 and 2000 RPM under load and on idle, there is a very noticeable warbling noise like a bird, it is more noticeable when driving and the RPM's reduce. The timing belt was changed in February 2012 with a new tensioner and metal water pump. I am informed that the pulley/cog has gone and might need replacing.

Is this a good diagnosis or could it be more serious?

[towcestervag]

never known the pulley go!
i would suspect that the belt tension is too tight or whoever done the job for you didnt fit a kit and the tensioner or idlers are noisy?

[geoff eeles]

it was fitted with a kit

[Doctle Odd]

It could be the alternator pulley its easy to check. Take of the aux belt and put a lollypop stick or pencil etc into the alternator to jam the blades. turn the pulley both ways it should turn anti-clockwise only when vied from the belt end. if won't turn both ways the pulley should be replaced

[geoff eeles]

Paul, you said it should only turn anti-clock wises, then say if wont turn both ways the pulley should be replaced???? do you mean with and with out the lollipop stick in it?

[Doctle Odd]

The stick, pencil or whatever is used to jam the alternator. then try to turn the pulley it should turn anti-clockwise but not clockwise as you look at the pulley face on. you don't need much force it either turns or the clutch inside it is toast. I use a stick, really an ice lolly stick, so i don't have to disconnect the battery which you should do really

[geoff eeles]

if it werre the alternator pulley, would the battery not charge properly, as this all seems fine?

[Crasher]

That is the camshaft pulley and it sounds like the belt has been set too tight, I hear these coming in the car park and know immediately what it is-its one of those noises like failed alternator pulleys, you just know.

[geoff eeles]

Crasher, i have some video with the sound in it but i cant upload it on this site. Got my bushes today, cheers.

[Crasher]

I followed the order through to make sure it was right. The noise is really distinctive but I find it hard to analogise. I know it when I hear it.