Now it has a bearing squeal when starting cold. Is there a history of any, one certain item, going south, like the alternator as opposed to the A/C clutch bearing. It's all on one belt, so how can I tell which component is complaining. thx
rjohnsto wrote in news:4702393a$0$26462$88260bb3 @free.teranews.com:
It's more likely a loose or glazed serpentine belt. Inspect the tension and tighten if needed.
If the belt's original, replace it with new OEM.
Before you spend your money on a new belt, safely place your hand on the alternator when the squealing starts. Don't place your hand on it if it has been running for any length of time, it will be hot. You will then be able to determine by feel if it is the alternator or just a belt. If it is the alternator, you should feel a grinding vibration associated with the squealing. How many miles on the car and belt?
You generally can not adjust tension on a serpentine. The tensioner is self adjusting, but sometimes the springs weaken, break, or the bearing goes out to require replacement. There is usually a belt tension range marker cast into the tensioner to advise you of belt replacement.
The car has 43K.... I used a stethoscope, but with poor results There's the Alt, A/C, PS pump and 2(?) idlers
Check the alternator as I mentioned, tensioner for correct operation, (make sure it moves), the belt is in the operational range on the tensioner if it is available (check in your owners manual), check the power steering reservoir for the correct fluid level, and the belt for any foreign substances on it, such as oily film, ect.. Start and run the car with the A/C off. If you can't find anything wrong, try a shot of belt dressing. Follow the directions, don't use too much. That is probably the cheapest way first to fix it. 43K is normally about 2/3rds the life of the belt, but that can vary, check your owners manual for the mileage change. The price of a new belt can range between 20 and 40 dollars.
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