Rattle noise from distributor area. took off ac belt to see if it was the compressor and its still there. 2001 frontier 3.3 no SC. maybe alternater or distributor? thanks, jamie

Make sure the oil filter is fitted with a return valve, some after market filters don't have this valve, and the oil drains back to the sump when stopped, It takes a second or two after starting to build up pressure with type of filter, so there is a rattle.

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some of those distributors were pretty loud as far as rattle noise. could be distributor it self, but would not worry about it much until it actually completely dies. could run like this for long time.

The ac compressor runs in defrost mode.
So the noise could be a belt tensioner or something involving the ac compressor pulley.

If you have not performed any service, might be a good idea to replace the components that you have mentioned and check to see if the problems go away.

just fixed rattling problem on my 2005 grand caravan 3.8 replaced alternator pulley has a clutch effect when i twist it back and fourth by hand could hear rattling and squeaks replaced alternator and pulley and rattling is gone

If your fan belt is squealing and changes pitch when you accelerate or let off the gas or squeals at first then tapers off, then it is slipping. If it is slipping you could replace the belt (probably a good idea considering the age of the car), or as a temporary fix you can spray the belt with belt dressing. Belt dressing is only a few bucks at any local auto parts store and comes in a spray can. Follow directions on the can.

If it is a different type of noise like a grinding or rattling noise, it could actually be a pulley or any of the devices the belt is used to drive, these can include power steering, AC compressor, idler pulley or water pump to name a few.

My best advice is to replace the belt, and toss the old one in the trunk as an emergency spare. The belt should cost under $20.00 and is money well spent as it is cheaper then being stranded and needing to be towed.

I had the same issue with my 2006. I thought the compressor clutch bearings were faulty. After further research, the rattling noise was actually coming from the serpentine belt tensioner. Easy repair!
Hope this helps.

Yes. You can cut it, the only thing it runs is the A/C Compressor.

Sounds like the belt is just too loose or the belt might be wore out. when it slips it squeals. when you turn on your A/C it slips alot more making it squeal louder. Hope this helps...