Expensive Car Wash
For many, many months we've had an intermittent "problem" with our Villager van. On some mornings there would be a loud screeching belt sound on start up. But not every day and only on the first start of the day. Might go weeks and not hear it.
We finally decided to have it looked at by the local Ford dealer. Turns out two belts and pulleys were worn out. Replacement cost ...$400. Ok. Got that fixed with a car wash thrown in.
The next day we drove to Temecula and every time we started after a stop, like at a red light, there was a wonky grinding sound. Not real loud but we knew something was wrong. Back to the dealer.
The mechanic and service writer duplicated the noise by stepping on the brake and the gas at the same time. I think they called it power braking. They also use a stethoscope to locate the trouble :) Seems one of the pulleys they installed was faulty. No charge to replace it. However.....
When they did the power braking the mechanic noticed that the engine lifted up about 6 inches. Yikes! One of the three motor mounts was cracked and broken. Alrighty...another $190 ....and throw in a car wash :)
After four days in the shop we now have a smooth running, sparkling clean van. And we'll be eating beans for a few weeks :)