Ticking sound up front...

[Cal_Gary]

Hi guys,
Last trip out, started hearing an intermittent ticking sound coming from the front-not the sound of a lifter tick so I suspected perhaps the water pump was finally going bad, or the fan blades making contact. Could also have been the alternator except that only has 3500 miles on it. Since I had the truck out front flying the flags for 9/11 I decided to troubleshoot the noise before garaging the truck.

After removing the fan belt and running the engine, no sound or ticking at all, a good sign. Turns out the alternator pivot nut and bolt worked loose, allowing the alternator fins to just barely contact the mount itself. I've also been dealing with a squealing fan belt (too narrow for the pulleys), and since I already had the belt off I went back to the other old one I stored (same number as the existing one, but 3/16th wider-go figure). Once I belted up and tightened the mount bolt I solved both issues-no more ticking, and no more squealing.

Glad it was something simple.

Keep 'em running gang!
Gary

[U404S]

It is always something, isn’t it? What a relief for a manageable problem.

Otherwise I will mention yours is one nice looking truck Gary.

Cheers, Jerry

[Cal_Gary]

Thanks Jerry! The picture doesn't show the multi-colored paint, numerous dents and dings aka character marks, but it's the only one in my neighborhood, and draws some attention whenever I'm terrorizing the Salt Lake Valley.
Next task is to take a points file to my points, confirm the .020 gap, and check the E3 spark plugs-known to carbon up pretty quick.
Gary

[vit16]

Good Job!!!