Technical Strange noise when changing gears

[cnewton]

Hi all

My dad has just bought a 2nd hand 2002 punto 40k miles and just passed mot.

He has noticed that when he changes gears from first to second, second to third, it makes a strange noise, like a whhhheeeaaa lol.. Not very loud but noticeable.

It only does this when cold and once warmed up no noise at all.

I appreciate it's very difficult to diagnose without actually hearing the sound but just wondering if anyone has any ideas?

Thanks all

Chris

 

[varesecrazy]

sounds like the alternator belt is slack and slipping,
Charlie

 

[cnewton]

Is that a big job to sort?

 

[fingers99]

No -- easy DIY job.

Mind you, I'd expect it in neutral, too, when the engine is cold and revved.

 

[s and b]

these noises usually turn out to be a worn out timing belt tensioner or even water pump bearings off load
if i were the original poster i would get professional advice before someting goes ting

 

[cnewton]

It's just had a new timing belt.. I will get it checked out

 

[cnewton]

If you it was a water pump or timing belt tensioner are these expensive to get done?

 

[fingers99]

On the 8v engines they're another easy DIY prospect. The 16v is a different kettle of custard.

Water pumps usually leak as major wear takes out the seals -- watch out for water loss.

For the tensioner (which should always be replaced together with the belt -- FIAT won't, AFAIK, sell belts for post 2000 FIRE engined cars without the tensioner), adjust the alternator belt -- if the noise stops, you'll be OK. If not, further investigation is warranted.

Neither tensioner failure or cam belt failure causes harm on the 8v engines -- the engine will just stop. On 16v engines, a lot of damage will occur as a rule.

Water pump failure will cause overheating, water loss, and head gasket damage.

Easy peasy way to tell if it is 8v or 16v -- 8v has round air filter box, 16v has rectangular one.

 

[cnewton]

It's an 8v matey