Chasing a whistle sound from 2005 6.0 - SOLVED

[nsogiba]

FWIW you have the old style driver's side valve cover; the updated version is better at keeping oil out of the intake. Also, the RTV dam around the knock sensors is supposed to be open at the back, shaped like a "c". Now you have a deeper pool to hold water.

What's the difference between the old and new style valve cover? My truck has the fixed orifice (no check valve) and consumes zero oil.

As for the RTV Dam...this is my 8th LS motor doing it that way and I've never had an issue. YMMV

 

[Fless]

No problem; I like to go by the TSB: https://www.tsbsearch.com/Chevrolet/02-06-04-023A

 

[Fless]

What's the difference between the old and new style valve cover? My truck has the fixed orifice (no check valve) and consumes zero oil.

As for the RTV Dam...this is my 8th LS motor doing it that way and I've never had an issue. YMMV

@donjetman's show & tell: https://www.tahoeyukonforum.com/threads/drivers-side-valve-cover-solved.152022/post-1934792

 

[nsogiba]

Welp...I spoke too soon. The new tensioner still occasionally whistles, just at a different RPM and frequency. It looks identical to the Gates unit. Is there an improved version or redesign for this thing?

 

[RTCburb]

I am chasing the exact same whistle in my '07 Suburban 2500 with 6.0.

Got so frustrated I asked a local shop that I respect to try and chase it down. Talked to him earlier today and they are stumped. No joy.

Please keep us posted and if I figure anything out, I'll report back here.

 

[Just Fishing]

Can't you do what they did to the later Tahoes?
They deleted the AC belt tensioner in favor of a stretch fit belt.

This one comes with the tool and everything.
The instructions for the tool suck, but the included tool works great for both removal and installation.

"ACDelco GM Original Equipment 19210691 Air Conditioning Compressor Belt Kit with Tool"

Amazon.com

 

[petethepug]

On high milage motors it’s not uncommon to have a worn pulley along with the belt. After 200k+ miles on our 90 (supercharged, LOL) VW Corrado, the power steering pulley wore out of spec.

The VW, like these GM V8 motors, the belt & pulley are at the front of the motor, down low and susceptible to road contamination and water.

Replacement of both the belt and the pulley permanently stopped the squealing / squeak.