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1963 Continental Engine Noise & Follow Up

Hi Bill,
My 1963 Continental just had the engine completely rebuilt; all new bearings, a valve job, new lifters, gaskets, etc. At the same time the carburetor, alternator, power steering pump, water pump, fan clutch, fuel pump, all hoses and belts were replaced (or rebuilt). The engine is working well except for an annoying rhythmic squeak when it is idling and up to temperature. When the engine is cold, there is no discernible noise. And, the squeak either goes away at higher RPMs, or is covered by the sound from the engine and fan.
The noise appears to be coming from the right front of the engine and seems to be internal rather than external. I have used a mechanics stethoscope to try to locate the noise with little success. The only time I seem to be able to hear it is at the intake manifold at the front where the first attaching bolt is located. But even that is questionable. Any thoughts?
Steve
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Hello Steve –
An internal squeak from an engine that has recently been rebuilt as you describe sounds like a vital part is not being lubricated properly. The car should really be sent by flatbed truck to the rebuilders of the engine for them to diagnose before possible damage can occur. If you wish to check a few possibilities yourself you could do the following. Install a ” master oil pressure gauge” to the oil pressure switch port on the engine, remove the valve covers and observe the oil pressure as the engine warms to full operating temperature. The oil pressure should be well into the correct specification for a freshly rebuilt engine if all is well. At the same time you can visually inspect the upper engine for correct oiling action and possibly diagnose a problem in this area.
Sincerely,
Bill
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Hi Bill,
This is a follow up to my earlier posted question (link above). After a great deal of investigation the squeak I mentioned was isolated to the rebuilt power steering pump which had been installed as part of the engine rebuild. Neither I nor my mechanic knew there was a filter in the power steering reservoir, and after the filter was replaced the noise went away for a few days. It has come back however which has me totally stumped. It would appear to me that somehow it has to do with the system maintaining the proper pressure. When the old filter was removed it appeared it was the original one, although is didn’t seem to be clogged. Also, I believe the old owner used power steering fluid instead of ATF fluid in the system (which was flushed and is now ATF). Any thoughts about this mystery? Does it make sense to remove the filter entirely as I understand John Cashman recommends doing just that? Thanks for your input.
Steve
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Hi Steve –
Not being there with the vehicle and actually hearing this noise makes it almost impossible to accurately diagnose or pinpoint the location of a squeak from here. I will say though that I cannot believe that a power steering system will make an actual internal “squeaking” noise if it contains lubricating fluid of any sort. If there is a fault in the pump or any other problem in the p/s the noises that are emitted are not unlubricated dry metal squeaks. The noises would be whining or grinding sounds etc. We do not in any case advise omitting any filters in an effort to eliminate or mask problems. If you believe that the squeak is internal to the pump you should now consult with the rebuilder of the pump for advice.
Sincerely,
Bill

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