Screeching Noise in low gears
Ok. Here is the first of probably many novice questions I will be asking you professionals!!
Only had my 230GE a week, but it has developed a screeching noise in 1st & 2nd gear (occasionally 3rd)
Seems to be when pulling away and changing up the gears. Possibly the fanbelt? It makes the noise for 5-10 seconds each gear change then once into 3rd and above it is not heard.
Any ideas, or ways to stop this?? Only the 3rd / 4th time I've driven it. Could it be the cold / wet weather?
Check your gearbox oil level immediately.
i am sure rakesh will not mind me doing this for him, the oil should be atf (red fluid cross reference with gearbox code for fluid type if not sure or call opie oils in redruth for advice) i would be inclined to dump the remaining oil out and refill , pay attention to the fluid that you drain and if it is clean or the metallic paint appearance of metal in suspension in the fluid (this is not good ) refill with fresh fluid to the level plug on the side of the gearbox.
the belt drive to the alternator /power steering pump ancillaries should be inspected for tension and condition /maybe also check the power steering fluid also and correct if it is low.
Thanks Axel,
Will let you know if it's looking low and get it topped up.
It has also been suggested that the drive/props shaft nipples need greasing.
Do you think this could be the problem?
Here's an example of the noise. It stops after a couple of seconds of being in 1st and 2nd gear:
Hi SBB
If that example recording is your car, then that noise is the ancilliary belt.
I'm not sure how the tensioning system is on a 230, but may need tightening if not auto tensioning. It would be advisable to remove the belt and check all pulleys and alternator etc are free and smooth. Check the belt whille you're there and renew it if there are any signs of cracking, or you're unsure of it's age.
Cheers Scott.
PS, just realised it can't be your G in the recording as it's a diesel! Peugeot maybe? But, if that's exactly what yours does, then all above is valid!
Thanks Stig,
I took that noise from the AA site as an example. It makes that noise when pulling away from traffic lights, the same happening when changing to second gear. It will also happen when changing down gears at roundabouts etc.
I was under the impression the Auxillary belt would only make this noise when starting the vehicle and would go away once started. This noise is occurring in 1st & 2nd gear for the full duration of my journey. Sometime worse than others.
+1, thats not your gearbox
Just driven it and it didn't make a sound!!
Thinking back, the noise may have only occured at night. is it possible that this only occurs when the lights are on?? Coincidence or not??
I will try again later when back at home.
your alternator belt must be creamed, i am guessing it is worn out and horribly slack, check the bearings when and if you fit a new belt if it has done high miles or lots of deep wading /offroad they maybe dry or full of mud.
if the bearings are rough or sound dry get the alternator off and have it checked over and stipulate you want it rebuilt with quality branded bearings and that they be 2rs spec ie. double shielded with rubber seals on both sides much better for g wagen type duty. a check of the brushes and the output is also a very good idea ,check the tensioner system is operating correctly . iam not familiar with the 230 engines system for belts and tensioners whether it uses a flat serpentine or 'v' belt , so please check this out.
Tried it with the lights on and the noise came back.
I will look to get the alternator belt replaced ASAP.
Alternator belt replaced and running perfectly. Thanks for everyones help. AGAIN!!
Thank you very much for posting the end result. It is always nice to have closure and learn what infact the initial problem was.
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Thanks Rakesh. I will check this in the morning and report back.
Any recommendations for the type of oil to use if it is low?
This may be the case as I recently had to drive it 250 miles in one trip.