Drive Belt

[Guest pmcimaglia]

I have a 2000 SE that I just purchased a few weeks ago. So far I love it but unfortunately I'm already experiencing some issues. It has 81K miles. A high-pitched squeel coming from one of the drive belts. Appears to be the alternator belt. Does anyone know how to determine whether its the belt or a bad pulley. The belt appears worn but I'm not sure. I don't have a tension gauge. I appreciate the advice. Also, I didn't hear anything when I test drove it....that was before the engine was power washed. Could this have anything to do with it? I don't know if the pulley bearings are externally lubricated or sealed. Thanks for your help.

[revgolem]

grab a can of some spray lube like a 5in1 or wd40, something simple. with the truck running and squealing, spray just a bit on the inside of the belt. if the squealing stops, it's the belt. if not then shoot it at each of the pullys until it does stop.

 

a very general rule with belts is that you should be able to twist it almost 90 degrees but not any further between the two most distant pullys.

[Guest pmcimaglia]

Thanks for your help. If it is a pulley and the WD-40 takes care of it, will it need to be replaced or should it be OK as is? If its the belt, does anyone know where I can get my hands on a procedure for replacing it? I've done it on my old car when I changed out the alternator but that was just one belt. This has 2 and appears more complex.

 

Thanks again.

[revgolem]

Well, if it's the pully the WD40 will take care of the annoying part... but it still means that a pully is on the way out. better to replace it then ditch it on the HWY.

 

if the belt looks ok but is the culprit, try just tighting it up a bit first.

 

as far as procedures, i might be able to dig them up tomorrow... that is if nobody else chimes in first.