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1999 Caravan 2.4 L engine noise


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mechanicbynecessity
New User

Jan 2, 2013, 12:56 PM

Post #1 of 2 (1575 views)
1999 Caravan 2.4 L engine noise Sign In

1999 Dodge Caravan - 2.4 L engine - 100,000 miles on the current motor. Last month I replaced the motor (bad main bearings) per mechanic's suggestion. When I started the engine there was a bad oil leak around the head gasket. Replaced the head gasket - made a mistake putting the timing belt on - one tooth off - Tore it apart again noticed water leak and replaced the pump...got the timing right (I think) at least it is getting 26mi/ gallon. Upon start up I noticed some sort of knock. Drove it 1,000 miles. No break downs, oil leaks, or water leaks. The knock is louder on a cold start then gets softer as the engine warms up. To me it doesn't sound like a tap of a lash adjuster. Almost has a diesel sound to it. Not a deep engine noise- sounds like it is coming from the head.

Things I have tried- higher octane fuel to see if it was a detonation problem - (helped just a little) - changed the oil and switched to synthetic -(Helped, but not solved)

Next thoughts - bad valve? off the other way on timing? maybe it is a lash adjuster? Maybe it just needs to be timed... not sure where to go from here besides tearing it apart and putting it back together.


Sidom
Veteran / Moderator
Sidom profile image

Jan 2, 2013, 8:40 PM

Post #2 of 2 (1531 views)
Re: 1999 Caravan 2.4 L engine noise Sign In

On something like this you are going to want to triple check those timing marks...... I've seen more 2.4s with the marks off than any other engine.....by DIYers & Techs....

There is actually 4 marks for the cam gears not just 2.....When the marks are correctly aligned you should be able to put a straight edges across all of them with all of them being in line....

Put a vacuum gauge on it. If the reading is low & shaky at idle....the marks are off....






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