Hey guys, this is my first post. I usually hang out at stangnet as VTStang66. I think I registered here a long time ago under that name but apparently I used a different email address or something. Maybe a mod can help me with that?

Anyway, I'm trying to diagnose a problem in my '99 Ranger (2.5l). I'm hearing a rattling kind of sound sometimes at certain RPM under no load. Sounds like a chain rattling. Also, the truck has randomly started running rough from time to time before, and very recently when I'm going down the road it will occasionally kick back. It feels a little more forceful than just a misfire, like the engine is actually trying to run the other way.

Also, It's making kind of a chirping sound on initial cold startup, like a belt slipping. It only lasts maybe half a second. I've replaced the serpentine belt recently though, so I don't think that's it. Could that be a timing belt or chain? Which do these things have anyway? Thanks in advance.

 

Welcome to Ford Truck Enthusiast.

Your truck has a timing belt not a chain so that wouldn't be your rattle. Have you check the heat shields on the exhaust for the rattle. I have never heard of a timing belt sqealing and normally they just jump and cause a consistent problem. How many miles do you have on your truck, the belts should be changed around 60k. Have you changed wires, plugs and fuel filter?

 

After I posted this I looked and saw that it's a belt. I was able to pull the cover out of the way enough to see that it seems to be in decent shape too. I wasn't driving the truck because I was worried, but I took it out and the problem was gone. The heat shields do rattle at a very specific RPM, but it's a very loud and obvious rattle and it doesn't sound like this one did.

Oh well, I went ahead and purchased a timing belt kit just for peace of mind. The truck has 75k miles so I figured it's about that time anyway. As long as I don't have any more problems I guess I won't really worry about it, who knows, maybe I'll discover something when I change the belt.