Flapping fanbelt

marrittm

Hello, my issue is as follows; I have a xsara Picasso 2L hdi 2002, it has had all of the following replaced, crankshaft pulley, x3 spring loaded tensioners, power steering pump x2 idle pulley tensioner and a few new belts. My problem is that even with all these changes the serpentine belt flaps like crazy at idle, I have heard problems with alternator clutch pulleys that can cause issues when faulty but after checking mine has solid pulley. 1 thing I noticed today is that when I put my rear heated screen on the belt got worse and same thing happened with any load added. My first thought would be alternator but I do not get any electrical failure or any other warning signs, but again today I had a very slight burning smell in cabin like a rubbery smell. I'm now at my lowest trying to identify why the belt flaps it's that bad that the tensioner vibrates and makes noise. I don't mind changing alternator if it cures problem but I just can throw any money at car anymore. Has anyone had this issue or had this issue as I would love some feedback if poss.

Thank you

P.S. can I get 1 of these freewheel alternator pulleys fitted in place of the solid one I have now if so where would I get 1.

Norman_Castle

Mine flapped when it was loose. 1.9D. Check the tensioners or if manual, adjust. Check the belt length. Try a shorter one if possible. GSF had more sizes than my local shop. Local shop were unaware of other sizes.

marrittm

Hello thank you for reply, it has 3 tensioner a now and even a downsized belt but not cured problem, like I say only thing not new it alternator

forgotmyname

If it gets worse as you put more load on the alternator then it seems all is not well with it or the tensioner isnt doing its job.

You changed the springs. What about the pulleys themselves? Plastic pulleys crack and bearings fail.

Is the tensioner putting enough tension on it with the engine off?

marrittm

The tension of the belt when stationary is perfect, I took to garage the other day to have checked and they checked all the pulleys and all were fine, they said they can't fault any part, the only part that has not had any testing done is alternator which makes me wonder if this could be fault.

Paperbird

I got a slight burning smell just before my alternator failed. I was told there was a clutch in it that was computer controlled to only provide charge when needed. If it still works I would check connections and voltage output with and without load to see if they are stable before replacing it as mine cost around £400 fitted ( it was covered by warranty )

Stooby2

I'd do a google search to see if this is a common issue - maybe see if there is a fix for it.

There's even an owner's forum...

http://www.citroenpicasso.org.uk/picasso/

marrittm

Thank you I have put the same thread on that fourum but still no luck.

Stooby2

Well it is Sunday morning - let them get out of bed first!

forgotmyname

I would have thought most Citroen owners assumes the car was just falling to bits and just dont open the bonnet in case the engine falls out

2002 its done better than most, Or don't you open the bonnet either

knight_rider

forgotmyname wrote: »

I would have thought most Citroen owners assumes the car was just falling to bits and just dont open the bonnet in case the engine falls out

2002 its done better than most, Or don't you open the bonnet either

I`ve had picassos for the last 6 years and had no problems apart from service items. They are no worse than Fords or any other maker, have you actually owner one?