2001 Ram QuadCab 5.2L

For about the last week, I have had a squeal at low speeds/idle. My belt was in bad shape, so I replaced it 3 days ago. Now the squeal has turned into an almost grind. I took the belt off and there is major wiggle when I shake the fan. This would be the fan clutch or water pump, correct? I am thinking fan clutch, because I'm not leaking any fluids. The real mystery for me is that the temp is holding a steady 160, from idle to highway. Any way to tell or do I have to take both off?

 

Water pump won't necessarily leak..... check and see if the water pump pulley wiggles too. If it does, time for a new pump.

 

Thanks, I'll be pulling it tomorrow morning.

Another question: All the other water pump threads say you might as well replace the timing set. My truck, other than this water pump issue, is running beautifully, no bad noises, very fast startup, and about as decent gas mileage as I can expect. Is it really necessary to replace the timing chain/gears or if it aint broke dont fix it?

 

Timing gears is a really good idea to do. Its only a few more bolts, a gasket, and you're there. From the factory, they used Nylon in between the links on the chain. Over time that Nylon wears off and you have a loose chain. Its like the plenum gasket, if yours isnt done, it will be.

 

Just curious, but doesn't do the timing chain require a impact wrench in order to remover the harmonic balancer bolt?

 

I used a socket, breaker bar, and a hammer...... the "Poor mans impact wrench."

 

HIT IT!!!

 

Did we check all the other pulley's or just the fan/water pump?

 

I checked the others, no movement/noise. 100% it was the water pump. I didnt realize how terrible it was spinning until I got the new one.

I went through hell getting the fan clutch off, I ended up taking off the whole pump/fan/shroud all at once, using the band saw to cut 2 slits on the pully, and stuck a steel rod through it to hold it while I turned on the big nut.

Then after it was all set and done, I have a leak. Its coming from where the engine and water pump meet, behind the 2nd bolt down on the right side, one of the long ones. I put the new gasket on nice w/ a bit of rtv, so I'm pretty bummed that this is happening. I threw some more sealant on the outside of it and plan on letting it set up overnight (since its too freaking cold out to work in the dark). If I still have the leak will I really have to take everything back off and put on a new gasket/seal? Or is there a secret trick I can use?

 

Did you use the gasket that came with the pump or a FEL-Pro gasket?