2000 Dodge Caravan Engine noise at idle

2000 DODGE CARAVAN
138,500 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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BARRERAVM
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I have a 2000 grand Caravan, 3.3, 138,000 miles. The problem: When I start the van, there's a "grinding, ratcheting, clicking" sound (not high pitched). This is at times intermittent, it may come on and quickly fade, or it sometimes comes on and goes off and on. This noise/ sound gets louder if the A/C is turned on. It also only happens with the engine at idle. When driving, or when I depress the gas pedal, it goes away until the rpm's drop once again. Engine oil level is good, there's no sign of a blown head gasket. The most recent maintenance done on the van was the replacement of the a/c compressor (noise existed previously) and the alternator. Not sure what it is or could be. Any insight ill be greatly appreciatd.
Jun 4, 2009 at 9:50 PM
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JALOPYPAPA
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If it gets louder with the A/C on, it sounds like it's either the compressor pulley and clutch (did they reuse the old one?) or something else the serpentine belt runs. You may be able to isolate it by listening closely while the engine runs (but keeping a safe distance from the belt--a piece of hose to one ear may work as a kind of stethoscope).
Jun 5, 2009 at 9:29 AM
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BARRERAVM
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I replaced thewhole compressor as a unit. I thought it was originating from the compressor, but the noise is there with the a/c off. It just gets a lot louder with it on. It is definately coming from the engine, not the pulleys.
Jun 5, 2009 at 5:39 PM
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