Whine, Whistle, Ringing Noise Complaints on 2004-2005 Cadillac 3.6L Engines - Engine Builder Magazine

Whine, Whistle, Ringing Noise Complaints on 2004-2005 Cadillac 3.6L Engines

Models affected: 2004-2005 Cadillac CTS, SRX; 2005 Cadillac STS with 3.6L Engine (VIN 7 – RPO LY7); and without Heavy Duty Cooling (RPO V03tV92).

This bulletin has been revised to add additional information on
inspecting the crankshaft harmonic balancer. Other complaints of a
faint engine whine-type noise have been reported at speeds of 0-30 mph
(0-48
km/h) at 1,000-2,500 rpm and may be caused by the primary camshaft
drive
chain. This type of noise may be amplified by the vehicle’s body
structure
.

Condition

Some installers/customers may comment on a whine, whistle, or ringing
type noise from the front of the engine that increases in intensity as
engine rpm increases. This noise is most audible standing in front of
the vehicle with the hood opened. If the noise fades into the ambient
engine noise by 2,000 rpm the harmonic balancer may be the culprit.

Cause

This condition may be caused may by the harmonic balancer. This
bulletin is being revised to add additional information on inspecting
the crankshaft harmonic balancer. Refer to Figure 1 and inspect the crankshaft
harmonic balancer for design type. After the inspection, if the vehicle
was built with three spoke design crankshaft harmonic balancer,
replace the harmonic balancer with p/n 12597654.

Correction

If the vehicle is equipped with the V03N92 Heavy Duty Cooling package,
DO NOT replace the six spoke design crankshaft harmonic balancer (see Figure 2).
Continue with routine diagnosis to isolate the noise.

Some or all of this information was provided by the Automotive
Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA). For more information on
technical bulletins available through APRA call 703-968-2772 or visit www.AutoBulletins.com.
figure 1 - refer to the above graphic illustration and inspect the crankshaft harmonic balancer for design type. after the inspection, if the vehicle was built with three spoke (1) design crankshaft harmonic balancer, replace the harmonic balancer with p/n 12597654.Figure 2 - Refer to the above graphic illustration and if the vehicle was built with the NEW DESIGN six spoke (1) crankshaft harmonic balancer, DO NOT replace it. Continue on with routine diagnosis to isolate the noise.

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