ncp

A few months ago I started noticing a strange, low pitched whirling sound coming from the engine compartment. The low pitched tone coincides with the revs of the engine. It doesn't always happen but when it does, it seems to come after making a hard left turn, especially once the car is warmed up. When cold, the sound seems to disappear. From the sound of it, it somewhat reminds me of a worn bearing or maybe some type of belt. Any ideas???

Quadcammer

could be an alternator.

BigInJapan

Can you hear the noise when the car is warm and idling, with the deck lid open? If so, you can use a automotive stethoscope to try to isolate each idler and pulley bearing.

Ian

ncp

Yeah, I suppose it could be the alternator, however, I think I mis-spoke when I described it as a possible bearing noise. Wouldn't alternator issues create more of a clinging, rattle? This is very low pitched, more like a deep resonating whirl, like something is rubbing somewhere. I know strange noises are hard to diagnose, especially without hearing it first hand. Thanks for the input.

ncp

Ian, I've tried listening for it from the engine compartment by ear but can't hear it. Can only hear it from inside the car. Likely the automotive stethoscope will be the next logical step - don't have one so will need a tech.

dejavo0

power steering pump. Check your fluid level

ncp

Aha, does the power steering system tie in with the clutch accumulator?

911/Q45

Yes indeed.

ScottMellor

Mine would make a groaning sound when I did a u turn when the fluid was low.

ncp

That's definitely it then. This is really bothersome as I had my wrench change out the accumulator two years ago and while he was in there, following everyones advice, I asked him to change out the slave as well. When I picked the car up, he said he didn't bother to change out the slave like I asked him, telling me it would likely be fine. Sure enough, the clutch started acting up again about six months later. What a waste. Thanks guys.

dejavo0

Actually, I believe they are 2 independent systems that use the same kind of hydraulic fluid. You probably have a leak somewhere in your powersteering system, probably the steering rack. Look underneath your car and see if your rack is wet around the rubber boots

911/Q45

Incorrect dejavo0.

budge96

I think dejavoO is correct i don't recall the two hydraulic sestems intersecting but then I have been mistaken before..
my vote is steering pump easily,low fluid level will certainly create some noises,make certain to replace
with pentosin f ,or else you may be doimg an entire rack shortly..
if I;m not mistaken if the two have differing fluid content they certainly don't intersect,thanks Bert

911/Q45

Same Pentosin for everything. Clutch and power steering assists driven by the power steering pump, feeds to a block by the fuel filter. Backup clutch reservoir in trunk by the brake master cylinder, for when the power assisted clutch slave fails.

ncp

Took the car into my wrench today. Yes, it is all tied into the same system. My power steering fluid is low (located in engine compartment) and the reservoir up front is full and showing signs of overflowing, indicating a bad slave. Part ordered from Sunset to be installed next week. Thanks for the help.