[asagodowns]

I recently purchased a 98 Acura SLX (Isuzu Trooper) with 83K miles... I have noticed that when I accelerate (forward or reverse) from stop a brief rattling noise from underneath and towards the rear of the vehicle. It happens even after the vehicle is warmed up, it doesn't happen when in park and revving the engine. Is this something that all Troopers do or is there something specific that I should address? Also, should the timing belt of been changed with this amount of mileage and is it common practice to go ahead and change the water pump at the same time?

Thanks for any and all suggestions!

 

[¡Oracle!]

It might be a loose heat shield, check around under the car for any loose heat shields first.

 

[wrenchmonster]

Hello. Oracle is on the right track I think. Your rattle sounds like something is loose. Should be simple to locate. Go under the vehicle and check the exhaust by banging it with the palm of your fist. If it's not there just check everything else under there by giving a good shake. Sometimes its helpful to have someone rock the vehicle a little while another is underneath, just don't crush yourself.

On the timing belt. Most manufacturers recommend replacement at 60K miles. The water pump should be replaced with the timing belt only if the water pump runs off of the timing belt. Which, in most cases it does. If you do not replace the water pump the bearings could go out, requiring a mechanic to go to the same place again and do the same procedure and charge you $ again. This is the rational anyway.

-Kevin

 

[Conman]

It might be the muffler too. Mine rattles mostly when cold. I had it replaced under warranty but the new one did the same thing. Once it's warmed up, it's gone.

Good Luck,
Con

 

[Trooperz2.6]

Yep I have to go with the exhaust rattle too. Mine does it when cold or warm but I kinda like it now. I would hate to have the perfect transport. :wink:

Cris