I’m having some trouble with my truck. It makes this loud pinging noise coming from the bell housing whenever I do a cold start. I checked the flexplate and didn’t find any cracks, so now I’m wondering if the part that turns the flex plate is worn out or if this kind of noise is just normal play. IDK if I should be concerned or if this is just how it is.
Does it start? If it doesn’t, you probably need a new starter.
It does start, but when the engine is cold, I can hear that pinging noise. It sounds like it matches the noise I hear when I push a screwdriver into it. Is it supposed to push in that easily and make a noise like that?
@Jace
Hmm, that sounds like it could be a sign of wear. Normally, there shouldn’t be too much play.
@Jace
A reman starter is about $50. Just replace it if you’re hearing weird noises.
When did GM correct this issue, or did they just ignore it and let the customer deal with it?
Ren said:
When did GM correct this issue, or did they just ignore it and let the customer deal with it?
The timing chain issues of the 3.6L are in the past from at least 2013 and up. There will still be some outliers, but overall, they don’t have the same issue anymore. Timing chains don’t have an expiration date like timing belts.
The best thing you can do is keep up on oil changes. If the timing chain guides wear out, the tensioner fails, or the front engine cover needs to be resealed, I would recommend replacing the timing chains and components during the process. If you have a high mileage motor (75k and above), otherwise stay up on oil changes, check your oil level at least once a month, and maintain regular maintenance like tune-ups, fluid flushes, and decarbonization.
@Jessie
What do you mean by decarbonization? Just curious.
Jace said:
@Jessie
What do you mean by decarbonization? Just curious.
Decarbonization is just cleaning out carbon buildup in the engine. It helps keep things running smoothly.
Use better oil and change your oil more often. There is nothing you can do about past neglect, the damage is done.
Lyric said:
Use better oil and change your oil more often. There is nothing you can do about past neglect, the damage is done.
What do you mean by past neglect?
Lyric said:
Use better oil and change your oil more often. There is nothing you can do about past neglect, the damage is done.
What do you mean by past neglect?
Just that if the previous owner didn’t take care of the truck, it could have already caused damage that you can’t fix now.