P0128, clunking noise on cold start, whistle noise from front right

[sgringwe]

2002 Saturn Vue AWD V6
Temperature ~20-30 Fahrenheit

I had the p0128 code come on today after driving for ~10 minutes. I have found lots of p0128 related issues online that mention to replace the thermostat. When I do a cold start, I hear a clunking noise. I also ocassionally here a whistling noise/airy noise coming from the front right of the car. Are these related?

Also, can anyone access the service bulleting for the following?

2004 Saturn Vue Engine And Engine Cooling Service Bulletin 174536

NHTSA: Action Number: 10009360 Service Bulletin Number: 174536
Report Date:
Jul 01, 2004Component:
Engine And Engine Cooling
Summary: Service information regarding a pop/clunk noise from the rear of the vehicle on initial cold start and/or during the warm-up drive cycle. *tt

That service bulletin seems to tie at least the p0128 and clunking noise together since it is filed under Engine Cooling, but I cannot find the actual contents to the bulletin on google.

Thank you
Scott

[far2grumpy]

I've attached a few files.

Rear end clunk is part of EVAP system self-test and not related to a thermostat problem.

I found one whistle (not AC related) but its tied to the 2.2 engine - don't dismiss until you check the air inductions system. Could be clogged filter or perhaps something screwed in the PCV plumbing.

I've attached a P0128 service bulletin with a bit of info and part numbers. I understand swapping a 3.0 thermostat is a painful process but I'll be glad to provide service manual extract for how GM suggests it be done.

[Chazberry]

Scott - might I ask why you are looking for 2004 Engine Cooling Service Bulletins when you have a 2002? The '04 V6 is a Honda 3.5L - the '02 V6 is a GM/Opel 3.0L L81.

[sgringwe]

far2grumpy - Thanks for the info. Glad to know that the clunking noise is normal. And thank you for the bulletin on p0128. I cleared the codes and if the same code comes back I will probably just take it in. About the whistle noise, I don't think I described it correctly. It is more of an airy noise. It will "turn on" for 2 seconds or so every once and a while. It started after I had a mechanic replace the front calipers (one of them was ceasing up). Maybe it was something temporary with the new calipers because I did not hear it today.

Chazberry - My mistake. there were 3 (2002, 2003, 2004) and I copied the wrong one. I meant to copy this one:

2002 Saturn Vue Engine And Engine Cooling Service Bulletin 174534

NHTSA: Action Number: 10009360 Service Bulletin Number: 174534
Report Date:
Jul 01, 2004Component:
Engine And Engine Cooling
Summary: Service information regarding a pop/clunk noise from the rear of the vehicle on initial cold start and/or during the warm-up drive cycle. *tt

[Chazberry]

Originally Posted by sgringwe

I cleared the codes and if the same code comes back I will probably just take it in.

How many miles do you have? Since the Intake Manifold has to come off to do the T'stat, good time to do the Plugs and Cam Cover Gaskets. One caution on the T'stat - it's real easy to break the tab that secures the T'stat Housing Extension Tube.