When I start my 93 Eclipse in the morning it sounds like something it hitting the timing belt cover on the bottom end but after about 8 to 10 minutes it goes away! What would cause this? Other than that problem the car runs great.
Noise
Feb 15, 2006
1 Replies
Either a hydraulic lifter needs replacing, or the cam or balance belt tensioner(s). You need to get this diagnosed ASAP. If it a lifter, it can be taken out, cleaned or replaced without taking the cams out: just use a big bar to depress the valve spring. Try reving to 3000 rpm for 30 seconds, and see if the noise goes away.
If the belts or tensioners are loose, you risk jumping a tooth or stripping the cam belt. When this happens, you bend the inlet valves, requiring a head rebuild and big expense, in the order of $1000. If the belts have not been changed for 60K km or you don't know when this was done, get it done.
The noise may also be the water pump.
Approximate costs are
belts C$60 water pump C$35 labour 2-3 hours $120
If the tensioner bearings need replacing, add C$100 or so.
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