Hey guys, I'm pretty bummed out about what happened today. Yesterday I took the car to work and back it was just fine. Today when I turned it on I noticed this rattling sound. I did some research and apparently this is from either one of the following:

1) Tensioner
2) Timing belt
3) Coupler
4) Parking on an incline? (Don't ask)... I do park on an incline though.

I took a video for you guys. I'm a total Zero when it comes to cars, and I appreciate any help and advice.

‪Cobalt SS S/C 2006 Engine Rattle‬‏ - YouTube



I'm pretty poor right now (university tuition) so I'm hoping this will not be an expensive fix.

One last thing, could you post the part numbers or even better, a link to where I can buy the necessary part from?

Thanks again
-----------------------------

I already posted this in the problems/maintenance thread but I thought I would put it here a little close to home too. (I realize you guys are probably sick of me since all i do is ask for help and input nothing of value...but I'm slowly trying to learn). I've been starting off with small things such as oil change and cabin air filter.

Thanks in advance guys I appreciate it

 

I assume the oil level is OK. Sounds like a really bad tensioner. I got mine at the dealership for 45.00 US. Took 10 minutes to install. There are couple of very good threads on here how to do it. Start with the simple things first.

 

sounds like direct injection, lnf mod for the win!


really though, check to see if your underdrive pulley is loose and all the things you had on your list.

 

I'm curious about #4? haha.. I parked on a incline last week and my car did some weird stuff but not sure if it was a related problem.

 

This ^^^. Check the tensioner

 

check the belt. mine sound like this with this belt>>>https://www.cobaltss.net/forums/prob...ssible-252548/

 

tensioner for sure.

 

yep thats the sound of a bad chain tensioner. i think its like 45 bucks at CED and you can change it your self if you know how to.

 

thanks for the quick replies guys. It's reassuring to have you guys here!

I'll start with the tensioner/belt and hopefully that solves the problem. Do I need to change the tensioner pulley as well?


Also, before I go to CED, is there any place I can get this part locally tomorrow, like partsource or the dealer, or will they not have it?

I found a link to this one off CED:

Ecotec Timing Chain Tensioner 12608580 - Crate Engine Depot

I'll try to do it tomorrow if possible, but if I can't do it I'll ask Dustin to help me and hope he accepts XD - I need a MR. Miyagi to train under lol

 

I can't take out the tensioner for the life of me to see if its broken. do you need a torque gun cuz it's in really tight.

as for the part... 40 bucks off ced but 30 bucks shipping and up to 2 weeks wait. From the dealer its $102.

This doesn't matter yet though because I cant even get it out.

 

im not positive, but i think theyre talking about the timing chain tension, not the belt tensioner. which would be inside the front cover of the engine.

 

Yeah, isn't that the one on the back of the engine, passenger side? 1.25 inch hex bolt

 

Sry to double post... but

Assuming i get the damn thing off tomorrow, do i just take out the old and insert the new or do i have to take the whole valve cover off etc.

I've seen people saying both on the site.

Also if i take it off will i need a new gasket?

 

you need some mechanical know how, or you will fux0rz your car ^_^
there is a how to i think here for it.

 

check this out>>> https://www.cobaltss.net/forums/how-...sioner-203071/

 

I got it out, how can I tell if it's broken

 

The tensioner should measure 2.83 inches (72.0 mm) in its compressed state

To compress the tensioner, use a flathead screwdriver, push the cylinder down and turn clockwise to lock it in place.

 

Fixed!

I think it cam compressed. Anyhow that **** was unnecessary. I basically **** my pants when turning the car on (after reading all those timing stories).

I really appreciate all your help! Especially dustin who sat through my texts!

If you guys ever need help with computers, re formatting, installing new parts, need programs, I'm your guy!

PS- MF GM dealer sold me the tensioner for 115 after tax. That's some bullshit