So I had the TGP up on ramps in the driveway today...changing out my knock sensor which cured my code 43.

I decided to start up the car while up on the ramps and crawl underneath to check for any leaks, as I just replaced the x-over on Monday.

As I was under the car, with it running, I noticed a whirring/growling sound coming from inside the oil pan. The noise changes in frequency with the throttle. The oil pressure gauge shows normal pressure (40 to 60 on the gauge, depending on RPM's and engine temp)

The oil pressure sending unit is brand new so the gauge should be accurate. The engine doesn't knock or perform abnormally at all. The oil level is full.

Could the oil pump be getting worn causing it to make this noise?

Can the pump be changed by dropping the subframe and removing the oil pan?

Is there anything else that is in that area that could make this sort of noise? Its not a knock or a tick, the best I can describe it is a whirring growling sound. Its quite noticable from under the car, and its definately coming from within the oil pan.

Thanks, Matt

Honestly I am not saying it might not be a problem...but if you have good oil pressure as I have also, the noise might be normal. Mine makes the same sound and has since I first bought it 4 or 5 years ago. I thought many years ago that it was either the oil pump or the crank pully telegraphing the sounds of the alt, power steering pump, and water pump. Sometime it would sound like it was coming from the power steering cooling line that runs across the front of the crossmember right in front of the oil pan.

So it may be the start of a problem...but my problem is very slow to surface because it has made the noise for a while. ;) :icon_cool:

Hmmm...thats refreshing to hear that mine isn't the only one. It's just that a weird sound like that makes me nervous. I think I'll still eventually replace it, just for peace of mind.

I hear you. Like I said it may be a problem, but mine has not failed yet so I am not concerned and writting it off to "normal" sounds. ;) :icon_cool:

Matt, do you have a mechanics stethoscope? They're pretty cheap(usually right around $10) at most part stores and come in handy for determining exactly where noises are coming from.

No I don't but I could probably use one of my girlfriends stethescopes (shes a Veternary Technician) I'll have to try that.