I've searched a lot on this and it seems that a lot of people are getting it, but theres not really a solution. Right when i start up I get the grinding noise, and if I give it gas in neutral it will grind from 2k-3 or 3.5krpm. If I have the window down while accelerating, I can hear the same noise also. I haven't pushed the clutch in to see if it will go away yet. I haven't messed with the timing belt cover either. But I did have the little side window off and it seemed louder in that area. Also, if this means anything, some belts started squeaking yesterday, but only when i come to a complete stop. When i take off, they stop sqeaking. wtf is that

well, it doesnt do it on idle when its warm. it does it in the 1k-2k range. still does it if i push the clutch in. i will mess with the timing belt cover tonight

also, i had the hood open and when the fan comes on, the noise stops

hmm, dunno what to make about the fan affecting it. i know i had a grinding/whirring sort of noise for a while. i was scared to death i had spun a rod bearing cuz it was commin from that general area. a few weeks later, my water pump shit the bed...bearings went out. just something to consider..

ive had the little window for the timing belt cover off for a while and lost the little bolt that holds it in. i think the looseness may be causing it to vibrate. anybody have an extra one they want to put in an envelope lol?

on a side note, a get a loud squeal from my belt every now and then when i start up now. i put some belt dressing on there. i inspected the belt, it looks pretty good, so does the timing belt

For the sqeal, I woud try to tighten the accessory belts.

I have the bolt... Check your PM sir!

its got to be the cam gears. i sat there and watched them for a minute. are they supposed to shake a little bit when the car is running?

Originally posted by fauchpj
its got to be the cam gears. i sat there and watched them for a minute. are they supposed to shake a little bit when the car is running?

No. Try tightening them a bit (to the correct torque of course!).

EDIT: Check your PM... well, bolt is in the mail, packaged rather nicely for a meer bolt.

Originally posted by 95_ESi_Person

Originally posted by fauchpj its got to be the cam gears. i sat there and watched them for a minute. are they supposed to shake a little bit when the car is running?

No. Try tightening them a bit (to the correct torque of course!). EDIT: Check your PM... well, bolt is in the mail, packaged rather nicely for a meer bolt.

alright, ive got to get some time to look into it. time to pull out the chiltons

Well, thinking about it and looking at mine. The bolt and washers on mine look like they are shaking, but the gears are straight. Is it like that for you? Or are the gears actually moving around?

fuck i got a flat on the interstate yesterday.

well i think its something with the pulleys. i cranked up w/o the ac on and it got significantly louder when i switched the ac on

i dont have time to mess with it anymore til this weekend

a bolt that holds the alternator on was loose or the threads were gone or something. i just heard from my dad, but have yet to hear it for myself. i have to wait til after work