Burning Smell

I had my UCAs replaced three weeks ago and was getting a burning smell come from the driver side area near the battery immediately after this work. I assume it was just penetrating oil burning off at first. After 3 days of driving it I took it back to shop. Owner couldn’t figure out where the smell was coming from and tech suggested penetrating oil. Well 3 weeks later it still has a smell. Any idea what it could be??? I’m stumped.

 

It’s possible they were careless spraying penetrant. But it should have burned off after one or two drives.

You should look at the battery cables too, in case.

Also make sure the alternator isn’t cooking the battery, over charging.

 

Is it a burning rubber, plastic, or electrical smell. They are all different. This may help narrow things a bit.

 

Maybe a plastic smell. Doesn’t smell electrical or like rubber. I’ll take it to advance auto and get an alternator test done.

 

Plastic smell could mean something rubbing on a pulley or the belt. That should make some sort of sound. Or something resting on the exhaust pipe or manifold.

I don’t think the alternator would cause a plastic smell.

Look under the hood. Look at the belt and everything it touches. Look at the exhaust manifold and pipes. Look for wisps of smoke.

 

Check wheel wells to see if anything is rubbing on the tires. Maybe lift front end and free spin the wheels.

 

Thanks y’all. I’ve looked pretty hard but I’m going check again based on some of the above comments.

 

There is a wiring harness just below the battery that clips to the frame of the truck. If the person who replaced the UCA didn't undo this clip, they probably damaged it when they removed the UCA bolt. I would remove the battery and take a look. It's hard to see if the battery is there.