Clattering sound when idling...fan belt?

[Smalls]

Hi there,

I would appreciate any advice for this problem:

When idling, I get a 'clattering' sound which doesn't sound too healthy. As soon as I press the accelerator (even just slightly) then the sound goes away, i.e. it only happens on low revs.

A point to note is that this only happened when my fan belt & power steering belts were replaced. I took it back to where it was done and the mechanic said 'I can't hear anything'!

As result I have a noisy Sharan TDI when stationary in traffic!

[towcestervag]

get the alternator freewheel pulley checked as these break up
the belt will chatter and the tensioner will vibrate badly

[Smalls]

Thanks I'll get that checked then.

A friend heard the noise and just said to tighten the fan belt - something which I haven't done (and wouldn't know how to!)

[towcestervag]

the belt is pre tensioned by a automtic tensioer
this can be loosened with a16/17mm spanner
then you should be able to feel the pulley for play and if it is seized

[scorpion]

had this problem with mine, it sounded like a black cab idling!
by the time it got to repairers the pulley had sheared off the alternator, renewed alternator etc to the tune of £350 .

[dazmac]

had this problem with mine, it sounded like a black cab idling!
by the time it got to repairers the pulley had sheared off the alternator, renewed alternator etc to the tune of £350 .

Alternatively the pulley is only £55, (from VW) and a quick Job to replace. Easier with Alternator off car (2 bolts and 2 cables on a 2001 model) Ccheaper part available I'm told from G&S?

I would agree with the diagnosis having just done my own. Check out my other threads, there is a pic of the part.

[burrows67]

Hi there,

I would appreciate any advice for this problem:

When idling, I get a 'clattering' sound which doesn't sound too healthy. As soon as I press the accelerator (even just slightly) then the sound goes away, i.e. it only happens on low revs.

A point to note is that this only happened when my fan belt & power steering belts were replaced. I took it back to where it was done and the mechanic said 'I can't hear anything'!

As result I have a noisy Sharan TDI when stationary in traffic!

i had the same problem with my sharan tdi it made the noise for about a year then the computer bleaped and said alternator workshop . i had to buy a new alternator and the pulley you have to buy separate from a vw dealer ford dealer the pulley comes complete hope this helps