Mystery Noise Driving Me Crazy! (Video)

[Jtruji511]

It's getting cold in Cedar Crest, NM, and a few weeks ago, My Jeep started making this whirling noise going 1-20 mph in the morning. The noise only happens for about 5 minutes of driving then disappears once the Jeep is warmed up. It shifts fine, but the whirling noise definitely goes with the RPM's, if that makes sense. Sounds like it's coming from the front of the Jeep, by the transmission. I had my transmission replaced about 1000 miles ago by a shop, took it back to the mechanic but he couldn’t find anything wrong with the Transmission. I'm puzzled as to why it's only happening during the cold temps, wondering if something metal is expanding once warmed up - U-joints? Any insight is appreciated as I am lost! Please see video:

2004 Jeep TJ Saharah.

 

[Chris]

I don't hear anything out of the ordinary at all.

If it's only happening when cold, I'd probably go grease all your fittings to start with.

 

[macleanflood]

Maybe pull your belt and see if the noise goes away?

-Mac

 

[Jtruji511]

I don't hear anything out of the ordinary at all.

If it's only happening when cold, I'd probably go grease all your fittings to start with.

Thank you for your reply, Chris. I will post another video and hopefully you can hear it. It’s very loud, sounds like a whirring, spinning noise. Didn’t have it till a few weeks ago. About 149K on the 4.0.

 

[Jtruji511]

Video 2:

 

[Jtruji511]

Maybe pull your belt and see if the noise goes away?

-Mac

Thank you, Mac. Could it be a bearing? Maybe a bearing is warming up and noise is going away.

 

[Chris]

Thank you, Mac. Could it be a bearing? Maybe a bearing is warming up and noise is going away.

Yep, it sure could. That's not to uncommon with serpentine belt systems.

 

[Jtruji511]

Yep, it sure could. That's not to uncommon with serpentine belt systems.

Thank you. What’s the best way going about finding the correct bearing that’s gone out?

 

[macleanflood]

Pull the belt and see if the noise goes away.

You won't have a water pump, power steering or an alternator so don't drive it for too long.

-Mac

 

[ColoJeep]

Thank you. What’s the best way going about finding the correct bearing that’s gone out?

Spin each accessory ( idler , alternator , PS pump , etc... ) with your hand , ENGINE OFF ! and listen for noise or feel the pulley for a rough spot as you rotate it.