Pinpoint Test G: The Generator Is Noisy

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

G1 CHECK FOR ACCESSORY DRIVE NOISE AND MOUNTING BRACKETS
- Key in OFF position.
- Check the accessory drive belt for damage and correct installation. Refer to ENGINE - 4.0L SOHV or ENGINE - 4.6L (2V) . Check the accessory mounting brackets and generator pulley for looseness or misalignment.
- Is the accessory drive OK?
Yes

GO to G2.

No

REPAIR as necessary. Refer to ENGINE - 4.0L SOHV or ENGINE - 4.6L (2V) for 4.6L for diagnosis and testing of the accessory drive system. TEST the system for normal operation.
G2 CHECK THE GENERATOR MOUNTING
- Check the generator mounting for loose bolts or misalignment.
- Is the generator mounted correctly?
Yes

GO to G3.

No

REPAIR as necessary. TEST the system for normal operation.
G3 CHECK THE GENERATOR FOR ELECTRICAL NOISE
- Disconnect: Generator C102a.
- Key in START position.
- With the engine running, use a stethoscope or equivalent listening device to probe the generator.
- Is the noise still present?
Yes

GO to G4.

No

INSTALL a new generator. Refer to GENERATOR - 4.0L SOHC or GENERATOR - 4.6L (2V) . TEST the system for normal operation.
G4 CHECK GENERATOR FOR MECHANICAL NOISE
- With the engine running, use a stethoscope or equivalent listening device to probe the generator and the accessory drive area for unusual mechanical noise.
- Is the generator the source of the noise?
Yes

INSTALL a new generator. refer to GENERATOR - 4.0L SOHC or GENERATOR - 4.6L (2V) . TEST the system for normal operation.

No

Refer to ENGINE - 4.0L SOHV or ENGINE - 4.6L (2V) to diagnose the source of the noise.