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Serpentine belt loosened due to fluid leak

Tiny
TEEOHDOUBLED
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 SAAB 9-3
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • TURBO
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 132,900 MILES
I need to gauge where an oil leak or other fluid leak is coming from. I was stranded because what was thought of to be a broken serpentine belt was actually a belt that slid off. I'm told possible culprits are the idler pulley (?), Crankcase or valve cover gasket. I'm familiar with the VCG job, but clueless to the others and my skill level at performing them.
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Monday, September 20th, 2021 AT 12:57 AM

16 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Good morning,

You need to pressure wash the front of the motor and then monitor the fluid leak to determine if it is either coolant or oil.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-is-leaking-oil

You can go to a car wash and do it yourself. Get it good and clean and then monitor it every day

I attached the procedure for you for replacing the tensioner. The belt comes off when the tensioner is worn out and does not retain the tension.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/serpentine-belt-tensioner-replacement

Roy.

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Monday, September 20th, 2021 AT 3:51 AM
Tiny
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Estimating it is the valve cover and I'm ordering a valve cover gasket kit. There is mention of some solution to apply to the valve for adhesion, but it isn't in the kits. Also, I've noticed one of the idler pulleys do squeak a bit.
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Sunday, September 26th, 2021 AT 2:48 PM
Tiny
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You need to replace the tensioner and the belt. That will stop the nise.

Did you clean the area and verify the source of the leak?

Roy
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+1
Sunday, September 26th, 2021 AT 2:59 PM
Tiny
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I can't drive this car while it's not holding coolant. I'm waiting on a new radiator. The shop owner said he degreased the front of the engine, and I see it listed on my invoice. The only thing he did in addition was put a new Napa belt on. So, you're telling me I have to take it off and replace the tensioner?
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Sunday, September 26th, 2021 AT 3:26 PM
Tiny
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Yes. I would do that. That is the original issue. I am surprised the shop did not do this for you.

We always replace the tensioner and the belt together when there is an issue of noise and falling off.

Roy
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Monday, September 27th, 2021 AT 3:58 AM
Tiny
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That's typical of me dealing with shops lately, they skimp or do shotty work. It's why I'm forced to do this myself now. Thank you again, I shall attempt this.
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Monday, September 27th, 2021 AT 8:32 AM
Tiny
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You are welcome.

Let us know if you have any other questions.

Always glad to help.

Roy
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Monday, September 27th, 2021 AT 8:36 AM
Tiny
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Yes, when I look up the project what is it called, idler pulley replacement? I'm using this reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVmRKEDsRLs
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Monday, September 27th, 2021 AT 9:54 AM
Tiny
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Not unless it is loose or is making noise when you spin it.

Roy
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Monday, September 27th, 2021 AT 9:58 AM
Tiny
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Something is squeaking badly in that area. I'm confused.
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Monday, September 27th, 2021 AT 10:03 AM
Tiny
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That sounds like the metal ribs in the belt hitting the pulley. If you spray some water on the belt, does it go away? If it does, it is the belt.

Roy
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Monday, September 27th, 2021 AT 10:09 AM
Tiny
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I finally sprayed water on the belt. The squeaking noise does not go away.
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Wednesday, September 29th, 2021 AT 4:19 PM
Tiny
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I take that back. I sprayed it a second time, being less nervous and lingering on the area and the squeaking noise did stop.
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Wednesday, September 29th, 2021 AT 4:23 PM
Tiny
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That is the belt. Replace the belt and the tensioner as we discussed.

Roy
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Thursday, September 30th, 2021 AT 3:27 AM
Tiny
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Okay, thanks. The mechanic put on a cheap Napa brand that is made in China. I don't want anything on my cars made in China. You may be hearing a lot from me. I'm forced to do my own auto repairs it seems.
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Thursday, September 30th, 2021 AT 5:09 AM
Tiny
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No problem. We are always happy to help anyone with their issues.

Roy
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Thursday, September 30th, 2021 AT 5:16 AM

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