Needing some help on this one. Have been doing repairs myself, but this is beyond me.
Symptoms: Truck began loosing power and bucking especially on upgrades, not at slow speeds, usually high, at worst slowing truck down from 65mph to 35. Did not happen on restart after pulling over. Was a very inconsistant problem--only on hill accelerations coming home from T-day trip. Noticeable clacking in the engine. Managed to get it home by not pushing when the power ebbed which kept it from bucking, and driving slow.
Recent history: Had the oil changed before the trip-- has a known leak. After getting back home, figured out that they used 5W30 and either didn't fill properly, this grade was just too thin (stupid shop), or my leak has gotten much worse very quickly. No oil light on, was not totally empty but low, put 3qts of
10W40 into it to refill.Now, I start the truck: The alternator/fan belt is running, but the other belt (the drive belt? I only know so much) is completely skipping--squealing and smoking like a chimney.
Further history on this pick-up: Replaced alternator & belt (few months ago), starter (almost same), clutch (with much help--1998), shocks and other things that could have nothing at all to do with current problem (over the years), battery tests fine, oil is changed regularly (usually the 3K mark, never been later than 5K), transmission linkage needs some work soon. Truck has 176K miles, am not original owner--bought it in '97 at 82K-- minor body dings/rust, but has always run like a dream til this.
I figure this kind of repair will be way, way beyond me, but you never know & I want to have some idea at least so the "new" shop doesn't take me for a ride.
Thanks for any info--need help!
--TinaG