Car sounds like a vacuum cleaner

Heads, valves, pistons, rods, crankshaft, etc...

Moderators: Helpinators, Moderators

Post Reply
grampswrx
In Neutral
Posts: 34
Joined: Thu Apr 05, 2012 8:55 pm
Location: Irvine, CA

Car sounds like a vacuum cleaner

Post by grampswrx »

I just picked up a 93 legacy ss with 49k. It's in very good shape but there are a few curious things:
First, when accelerating it sounds like a vacuum cleaner/electric motor. It is related to engine speed because when it shifts the sounds slows down then proceeds to increase again. I would say that it sounds like the alternator is going out but there are no symptoms of that. Could be the power steering pump? The car has no leaks or noticeable problems. Do these cars sound like that? None of my other turbos have.

I know that description isn't very useful but I was wondering if anyone had any ideas.

Thanks
grampswrx
In Neutral
Posts: 34
Joined: Thu Apr 05, 2012 8:55 pm
Location: Irvine, CA

Car sounds like a vacuum cleaner

Post by grampswrx »

Also, it's not the turbo spooling. I can hear that whistling and I know what it is.
Legacy777
Site Admin
Site Admin
Posts: 27889
Joined: Tue Oct 15, 2002 11:37 am
Location: Houston, Tx
Contact:

Re: Car sounds like a vacuum cleaner

Post by Legacy777 »

Remove the alternator & PS belt to see if the noise goes away. If it does, you've narrowed it down to one of those two things. Try spinning both by hand. The PS pump should spin very freely without much resistance. The alternator should again spin freely, but may have a little more resistance.
Josh

surrealmirage.com/subaru
1990 Legacy (AWD, 6MT, & EJ22T Swap)
2020 Outback Limted XT

If you need to get a hold of me please email me rather then pm
grampswrx
In Neutral
Posts: 34
Joined: Thu Apr 05, 2012 8:55 pm
Location: Irvine, CA

Re: Car sounds like a vacuum cleaner

Post by grampswrx »

Cool, thanks. I will try those ASAP
Post Reply