Astra 1.7 LSTD, 1997 - Help - Sounds like a sewing machine!

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Mon 19 Jul 2010 10:52
Astra 1.7 LSTD, 1997 - Help - Sounds like a sewing machine! - Cornish Lass

Got a noise on my car which I am trying to trace. It speeds up when revs increase. Its most noticeable on idle, but probably just drowned out by normal engine noise when driving. Sounds like a bearing failing or something rubbing.

Had a new cambelt, tensioners and water pump approx 3-4K ago. Took cam cover off at weekend and ran car but no sign of anything wrong there. Also suspected alternator bearings, so disconnected fan belt, but noise still there.

Its also not affected by dipping the clutch or whether in gear or neutral. Can be heard when driving or stationery.

Seems to be to the rear of the engine, and more noticeable in the car than when standing over the open bonnet. Its the 1.7 GM engine and 129K miles.

Beginning to suspect its something more expensive now! Just to complicate matters, hoping to sell car soon as picking up my new one next week. Any suggestions on what else to look for would be great. Not sure whether to embark on repairs or sell as is, as car not worth much!

Thanks in advance!

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Mon 19 Jul 2010 12:23
Astra 1.7 LSTD, 1997 - Help - Sounds like a sewing machine! - Harry Boy

I realise this may not help but in a lighter vein I had a similar problem years back, but then my Singer sounded like an Astra 1.7 LSTD. With apologies....

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Thu 22 Jul 2010 01:11
Astra 1.7 LSTD, 1997 - Help - Sounds like a sewing machine! - top-mechanic

if its coming from gear box side i would suspect releas bearing as this is in constant contact with clutch but would exspect slight change in tone when pressing ,try poping back too the people who done cam belt and say i have a noise from that area and they may just point it out for you for free

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Fri 23 Jul 2010 03:57
Astra 1.7 LSTD, 1997 - Help - Sounds like a sewing machine! - 1litregolfeater

Whats the problem? Diesels should sound like that

A lot of old Vauxhalls sound like taxis (which is indeed what they are or have been) or transit vans, so if yours sounds like a sewing machine, sweet!

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