Alternator noise

[hotelmode]

My '04 Liberty started making a noise after sitting for about a week. Prior to that I never noticed this noise. I suspect it's coming from the alternator, but I'm biased because I *want*it to be the alternator. Seems like the easiest component to replace.

I did the screwdriver trick and the sound comes through loud and clear, but it also comes through the A/C compressor, just maybe not as loud. I'll have to do some more checking.

In the meantime, here's a video with audio. Maybe someone will recognize the sound. https://youtu.be/6CqtY0AX2UY

Thanks!

 

[ltd02]

Take the belt off and spin all the pulleys by hand. Something making that much noise should be noticeable.

 

[LibertyTC]

^x2 -Also an auto stethoscope really helps to pinpoint noise location.
I listened to the noise, sound like a chicken coop under the hood ! :gr_grin:

 

[HoosierJeeper]

When my alternator went bad it sounded like a rocks in a bucket. But yeah it is easy to replace and about $50 from a junkyard (better than auto part store ones)

 

[hotelmode]

Take the belt off and spin all the pulleys by hand. Something making that much noise should be noticeable.

It's the water pump. About 1/8" of wiggle, and fluid is leaking out. I changed the oil last week and already the filter is covered with dried up coolant/gunk.