Chevrolet Repair: strange noise !, chevy s10 blazer, s10 blazer 4x4

Question
I have 1989 Chevy S10 Blazer 4x4 with a 2.8 v6 and a 5 speed transmission. It makes a growling,rattling noise when idling that stops when you press the clutch. Also it makes a howling,whining noise when engine is warm at about 2500+ rpm.Sound appears to be coming from rear of block or bell housing. Is this a pilot bearing or main bearing ? oil pressure is fine. 20 at idle 40-45 at 2000 rpm.

Answer
Hey Buddy,

  Not so strange and very common.  Its one of two possible defects.           The clutch fork has the release bearing on the end of it and the tabs can wear out causing the release bearing to rattle when no pressure holds it against the pressure plate.  But considering that the howling noise is there I assume its the front bearing in the transmission.  the input shaft bearing is a common failure and both issues can be rectified at once.  Drain a bit of fluid out and make sure its clear and there is no water in the trans.  I have seen a couple of my local 4x4 guys go over their heads in water and corrosion of internal trans and differential parts cause bearing races to make odd noises.  If you go off roading you should be draining and filling your diffs making sure the vent hoses are intact and mounted above the frame rails.


Wayne Howei