New "chirping" sound... could it be an early IMS failure?

[1001emmo]

My '99 Box has a new "chirping" sound... only at idle or low RPM and seems to be heard with engine under load (excelerating from low speed). Anyone got any ideas where this is coming from? I orginially thought it might be a pulley/bearing on the front of the engine - but then I got to thinking about all this chatter about intermediate shaft bearing failurs. My car has 118K on it, tracked about 5-10 times and I've had it for two years. Runs fine (so far!) Much appreciate the advice.

Joel

[Richard Hamilton]

Check that the spark plugs are tight. They make a chirping noise if one comes loose. Do a seach here for 'chirp' or 'chirping' and you will fing a video of the sound.

Here it is:

Edited August 16, 2011 by Richard Hamilton

[N41EF]

My water pump had a wobble ay 60k miles, let it chirp when cold at low speed. It wouls stop when the engine warmed up.

I'd take the belt off and then grab the pulley for the water pump and try to wiggle it. If you get any movement replace it.

[infocusf8]

My water pump had a wobble ay 60k miles, let it chirp when cold at low speed. It wouls stop when the engine warmed up.

I'd take the belt off and then grab the pulley for the water pump and try to wiggle it. If you get any movement replace it.

+1 sounds like the water pump. IMS is said to sound like marbles in a coffee can and by then it's too late.

[pk2]

A stretched serpentine belt can give you a chirp. Also, If it only happens when it's cold, It can be lifter(s), (pretty much harmless).

Regards, PK

[Topless]

Further diagnosis is needed. Is the sound coming from the front (WP/Belt/PS pump), Rear(exhaust leak), L or R side (spark plug/worn chain guides), bottom center (IMS)? A loose spark plug is no big deal. A failed WP or chain tensioner guide is a motor killer.