Clicking noise. Please help
 

Hi, I was wondering if any of you have dealt with a similar problem. I have a 2003 3.2 986. Here is a video of the noise.. https://vid.me/zlFf It seems to be coming from near the alternator. Maybe the pulley on it or the one to the right of it. You can see in the video that when I apply the throttle the noise stops. (it only does it at idle)

Thanks!!!

This a common and reoccurring problem, you rfree wheeling alternator pulley is on its way out. Fortunately, it is a quick and easy replacement. Do a search, you will need a special tool to get it off (about $25 or so) and several online source have the pulley.

Brilliant diagnosis JFP.
Here is a useful link and a video that may help you:
Boxster Alternator Free Pulley - Pelican Parts Technical BBS
The part is cheap from Pelican - $47
2001 Porsche Boxster S Convertible - Charging System & Battery - Page 1

Thank you guys so much for the help and links. From what I have read, I will need a special tool to remove the old pulley. Is this what I need?
/ / MK-3504ALT / ZDMAK auto tools

Or is there a way to do the job with conventional tools?

That is the correct tool, and there is no other way to do it.

Ok cool thanks! I have had good luck with Amazon, so I am trying to order the parts from there. Also, I am a prime member so I will have them in 2 days. I am about to place an order for these. I just wanted to run them by you guys to make sure they were the right parts:

Amazon.com: Gates 37014P Alternator Pulley Kit: Automotive

CTA Tools 8088 Bosch Alternator Wrench for VW/Audi - - Amazon.com

Thanks again for the help!

Both are correct.

I removed my belt yesterday to inspect the pulleys and noted that the alternator pulley is seized. By coincidence, I order the Gates pulley as well, but ordered this Lisle tool as the other one doesn't ship to Canada. This should work as well, right?

Here's a photo of my de-coupler threads:
http://986forum.com/forums/uploads01...1435538014.jpg

I got the tool and pulley in from amazon. Took me half an hour and worked like a charm. No more racket when idling. Thanks again guys! Now on to fixing my assumed heater core issue (Getting coolant smoke from the AC vents) :cheers:

Did you have to remove the alternator or you could swap the pulley on the spot?

No need to remove the alternator. It took a lot of pressure with a large breaker bar to get it loose just FYI

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Thanks for the hint :cheers:

How did you attack it? From the top, through the access hole behind the seats or from underneath?

Thanks!

I'd bet the easiest way is to attack it through the engine cover behind the seats?

That's right. No need to remove the top panel. In fact, I didn't even remove the carpeting that covers it.