Noise on Start up - '80 BJ40 (1 Viewer)

[Rojo Viejo]

On a cold start, there is some kind of scraping, dry bearing type noise coming from the engine bay that clears up after a minute or so. I have been unable to locate the source of the noise even with a stethoscope. What could it be? Water pump going out? Starter not disengaging? Thermostat opening? Something changes. You can hear the noise abruptly disappear at 1:27 in this video.

 

[roscoFJ73]

I would guess its the water pump.Try disconnecting the belts one at a time.Its also much easier to hear the problem without the fan roaring

 

[lostmarbles]

That whirring growl is certainly horrible!

It purrs nicely in the last seconds of the video though.

If it's the same as my 1979 (and without power steering and AC) you'll only have the one belt (but a big fat one).

Anyway, I'd follow Rosco's advice and loosen the belt.

Then I'd see if there's any abnormal movement/play in the water pump shaft (upon which your radiator fan is mounted).

Like Rosco, I think the water pump is the most likely suspect.

But I think the noise could also be coming from:

• alternator
• power steering pump (if you have that)
• fan viscous/fluid coupling (if you have that)

And as with the water pump, excessive play (or movement in an abnormal direction) will normally identify the culprit.

Good luck.