dahonda1986

Two weeks ago my buddy replaced all the timing components and installed Gates (USA made) racing belts, Paraut water pump, GMB tensioners, lower timing cover and gaskets, 1 spring for timing belt tensioner, cam and crank seals, and a valve adjustment. Replacement parts are all new OEM components. When we started the car there was a squeaking or squealing osscilating noise from the center of the lower timing cover at idle and up to 50mph and the steering wheel was shaking a little more than usual only at idle. He redid the job a week ago with new Koyo timing belt tensioner and still the same noise. The replacement GMB tensioner he took off had a more side play than the original one he took off. The original timing belt we took off was really loose and could be turned 180 degrees, but I never had any problems.

Then he put on Mitsuboshi belts and retimed the engine, not using the balance shaft bolt (said he didn't need to). All other parts are still in there. We start the engine and steering wheel does not shake now, feels like before the job. The original oscillating noise is gone but now there's a new oscillating noise that only comes on after driving more than 10 minutes above 35MPH and then idling more than 15-20 depending on weather, in other words only when engine is hot to touch but with temp gauge a bit below center. The oscillating noise sounds like a mid-range warping noise from something that's is possibly not balanced when put on, moving side to side. Not squealing or screeching or whirring. This noise is ONLY at idle RPM, unlike the first one that was caused by Gates racing belts. As soon as it's 800RPM and above, noise is gone or so reduced that it's absorbed by other engine noises.

Timing belt now has normal tension (can be turned 90 degrees), the balance belt is tight enough so that idler pulley turns with about 8ft/lb of hand force while still touching the belt.

Car has 103,600mi and drives sweet but noise has not changed in 1 week. I also went to another reputable shop for second opinion and they couldn't even hear the noise, while I could but not as much as after driving over 35mph and then idling 15mins. Any ideas?

dahonda1986

Went to two other good rep garages who both said the wobbling noise is completely normal because all the parts are brand new and the valve adjustment was done. One garage said it will take time for the parts to wear in. Other garage is certain the sound will not change and advises not to waste money into it until next time.