1. When I put it in gear, it starts moving slowly for just a few seconds. It makes a sound that's not quite a whining sound (like a belt or pulley) but more like it's 'complaining' (I can't think of how else to describe it). It only lasts for a few seconds, but I know that it can't be a good sign.
2. I can hear 'water' running from what sounds like the passenger side firewall. I removed the cowling at the bottom of the winshield and checked the drain holes but they were clear.
Ideas...?
Please keep in mind that I am a rookie shade-tree mechanic...
Sounds like air in the heater core. Does your heater work properly?
This is rather common after cooling system has been drained and re-filled (air lock), and also is common near the failure time of the heater core. Do you smell antifreeze in the cab? or see any drops on the passenger side floor?
As for the whining does it only do it while in gear? say it whines in Drive and Reverse but immediately stops when placed in Park? if so i'd say probably torque converter is likely. It may drive ok but make the noise, if so quit driving it and replace the torque converter so you can save the tranny (did mine recently, TC=$600, GOOD rebuilt Tranny $2000). as for the water noise, pull up the carpet on your passenger side and check for a small amount of water or rust showing that water has been there. if so get either a pipe cleaner or compressed air and clean out the vent tube sticking out of the fire wall below your accumulator, it will clog and drain a small amount of water in the cab. Mine made noise like that but usually only when the AC was on
Thanks bros. I was hoping to avoid screrwing with the heater core, but that looks like the best answer since I've checked all of the drains. That and a Torque Converter change should keep me busy for the next month or two...
Best way I found to get the air out of the cooling system, and, mind you, I'm no mechanic, just a little DIY on my own vehicles, pop the radiator cap off and start your truck. As it warms up, you'll see the coolant bubble and the level probably drop a bit. Add coolant as needed and you can also work the upper radiator hose, that helps to get air out as well. Let it run until it's no longer bubbling and the coolant level stays where it should. I would also recommend having someone keep an eye on your temp while you're doing this, but like I said, this worked for me, and as with anything, it's best to consult with someone qualified before performing any procedure, but good luck and let us know how you make out.
- Cajun
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