Tizzy1 - Any word on the TSB yet, I just bought a 2010 Grand Cravan SXT and the exhaust sounds a little "motorboatish", not bad though to replace but I would if I could make it quieter, but when engine/exhaust is cold it is like 5 times louder and annoys the wife, by the time I get to the dealer (3-4 miles away) to show them of course it isn't as loud, just the mild "motorboatish" sound that isn't loud enough for them to do anything about it.

Is there a known cause or bad part that I can replace in the meantime, I don't think the place I bought it from will pay for any of it anyways unless there is a TSB they can look up and the local Dodge dealer sounded like they knew what I was talking about and could fix it but wouldn't tell me anything until I made an appointment and had it checked out by their guys. They are probably afraid I will fix it myself.

Thanks,
Terry

 

The TSB has finally been released for the exhaust drone noise. I will try to get a copy posted but if you are still under warrenty you could just bring it in. It is a weight package for the idle drone and a new halfshaft for the 65mph drone.

 

Tizzy1 thank you very much!
My 3 year or 60.000km basic warranty had just recently expired on 09/23/2011. However 5 year or 100.000km powertrain warranty is still valid.
Is this TSB related to powertrain (I'm almost 100% positive that it's not)? In that case what will be approximate cost of this TSB for me?
Thanks!

 

If you had a previous complaint at your dealer, you should hopefully be able to get it covered because the bad news is, the damper is $314 just for the part......ouch. I'll try and post it later but I have to print it and scan it and blah blah blah. The guy next to me is doing one as I type for the same complaint.

 

here it is, never mind files too large.. here is a copy and paste;

SUBJECT:

Drone Or Rattle Sound At Idle Or Drone/Vibration Between 60 And 65 MPH (96 And 104
KPH)

OVERVIEW:

This bulletin involves diagnosing the condition and only if necessary making adjustments
to the exhaust system or installing a exhaust damper or right halfshaft as required.

MODELS:

2008 - 2010 RT Dodge Grand Caravan/Chrysler Town &
Country

NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with the 3.3L or 3.8L engine (Sales
Code EGV or EGL).

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:

Vehicles may exhibit a drone at idle or while the vehicle is warming up (from a cold start)
and when RPM is at 1250 RPM and then again as the idle comes down and hits 800 RPM.
An additional drone sound on 3.3L engines may also be present when the vehicle is driven
at a between 60 & 65 MPH (96 & 104 KPH) (steady state driving) and is more pronounced
while driving up a slight grade.
A rattle sound may also be noticed at all RPM ranges, idle or driving. This condition is
most likely caused by the exhaust contacting the body.

RATTLE DIAGNOSIS:

1. Inspect for witness marks or contact between the exhaust system and the underbody.
2. Are there witness marks or contact between the exhaust system and the underbody?
a. Yes >>> Proceed to

NUMBER:

GROUP:

DATE:

DRONE DIAGNOSIS:

1. Start engine.
2. As engine is warming up, idle will decrease from 1350 rpm to below 800 rpm. Remain
off accelerator pedal during this warm up cycle.
3. Is a Drone exhibited between 1300 RPM and 800 RPM?
a. Yes >>> Proceed to

PARTS REQUIRED:

Qty. Part No. Description
AR (1) 04877533AH Muffler 3.3L Engine
AR (1) 04877538AI Muffler 3.8L Engine
AR (1) 68040858AC Converter, Catalytic 3.8L Engine
AR (1) 04880210AH Halfshaft, Right
AR (1) 68149326AA Damper

ALIGN EXHAUST REPAIR PROCEDURE:

1. Loosen the all exhaust mounts.
2. Adjust away from contact point.
3. Re-torque all fasteners. Refer To Group 11 - Exhaust System > Specifications and
inspect again for clearance.

DAMPER REPAIR PROCEDURE:

1. Install damper on exhaust behind muffler as shown in (Fig. 1).

 

What about the 4.0l? Doesn't the 3.8 and 4.0 share the same exhaust,etc.?

 

different exhaust, bulletin does not apply to 4.0l