Author Topic: Squeeeeeeeeeeal (Read 4047 times)

ecalder · « **on:** February 10, 2010, 09:26:23 PM »

I originally thought the loud screech when starting the engine was due to the power steering pump, but I recenlty removed the belt and started the engine and the squeal was still there, maybe even louder than before. Any other ideas what it could be? I'm pretty sure my oil filter housing gasket was leaking could it be that the oil was leaking onto the belt?

Could it be the alternator? Is there any servicing I can do to the alternator now that it is out of the car?

Also, do I need a new belt every time I remove it?

doitover · « **Reply #1 on:** February 10, 2010, 09:30:14 PM »

Do you have the AC on? I think my compressor clutch is dying, it squeels pitifully. Kind of has a more metallic sound to it.

ecalder · « **Reply #2 on:** February 10, 2010, 09:34:08 PM »

A/C is out actually. Only does it when it is really cold. I was SURE it was the power steering motor though!

nicknikolovski · « **Reply #3 on:** February 11, 2010, 03:29:56 AM »

Clutch thrust bearing, dual mass flywheel or spigot bearing could cause this but these tend to continue making noise. But you are saying it only happens on start-up correct? Moving onto the drive belt accessories, have you got a single belt set-up or the 3 individual belts? I would remove all of the belts and spin each pulley. The alternator will squeal/rumble. There is a alternator shaft support bearing directly behind the pulley and casing. I believe this could be the cause. Can you post a video?

ecalder · « **Reply #4 on:** February 11, 2010, 04:16:17 PM »

Nick thank you for your response!

First I had two belts: P/S and the alternator/water pump. Then I removed the P/S belt. Now I have none as I'm in the middle of replacing all of my oil gaskets! This is a recording I made the last time it happened, just before I removed the alternator/water pump belt and began dismantling the car.

I'll check out the alternator shaft support bearing. So you say when I spin it if there is a problem it will squeal a bit? Hopefully it is something like the alternator that I can easily replace...

Here is the link to the sound it makes:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bY0XwbJanNY

Thanks again!

ecalder · « **Reply #5 on:** February 11, 2010, 05:34:17 PM »

Argh. My server is down and the YouTube didn't work... Y'all know any other way to post a .wav file?

ecalder · « **Reply #6 on:** February 11, 2010, 11:03:10 PM »

Server is back up... click here: http://www.lanovatile.com/Memo.wav and tell me what you think the squeal is... Thanks.

nicknikolovski · « **Reply #7 on:** February 12, 2010, 01:58:19 AM »

No, when you spin the alternator pulley it shouldn't make a bearing type noise. It should be quiet. The squeal is simply caused due to the added load and tension on the bearings inside.

nicknikolovski · « **Reply #8 on:** February 12, 2010, 02:06:45 AM »

I listened to the wav file. I would start the engine (not for long) without the alternator/water pump belt fitted. Then you will 100% know that it is from that area if the noise goes away. If the noise remains with the belts off, you will need to look elsewhere. To me that sounds like a loose alternator belt. First do the above and then refit the belt, tension it, start the engine and if noise comes back, tighten the belt a bit more. Post back your findings.

ecalder · « **Reply #9 on:** February 12, 2010, 08:52:01 AM »

Thanks Nick,

I'll try starting that as soon as I get the car back together and will post back for sure!

JHZR2 · « **Reply #10 on:** February 13, 2010, 12:03:17 AM »

Mine gets this, it isthe alternator.

mbtech0 · « **Reply #11 on:** February 13, 2010, 09:17:35 AM »

Sounds like the WP/Alt belt. Just went thru this. The 9.5mm wide belt isn't wide enough for this application. Get a new OE belt, check to be sure your fan clutch isn't seized up, and that water pump & alternator turn freely. Clean all pulleys with carb or brake cleaner, to remove oil, and tighten the belt, it will need to be tighter than you'd think it should be. Belts from many auto parts stores, like NAPA, are way too long for this application, and you can't get enough tension on them. Also check that the alternator rubber mountings aren't allowing the alternator to flop around. Pelican Parts has the correct belt, and the rubber bushings.

ecalder · « **Reply #12 on:** February 13, 2010, 08:51:51 PM »

Thank you thank you. I think you're right about the longer belts since the alternator can't really be tightened any more than it was before I took it apart. I'll get the new stuff and give it a try... and let you know how it goes.

ecalder · « **Reply #13 on:** February 22, 2010, 09:25:33 PM »

The squeal is gone! I swapped over to an OEM belt which allowed it to tighten a bit more, but mainly I think it is because the oil filter housing was leaking through either the o-ring (which was crusty plastic when removed) or the gasket itself. Thanks for all of the input!