Something's squealing Options

[senick]

I'm guessing this is an alternator issue. I just noticed a high pitched squeal from the engine bay on my way home coming off the highway. I know it's not the brakes because the noise persists even when stopped. I had the blower off too, so no a/c belts were running. I dress the belts regularly anyway so I don't think it's that.
Could this be a sign of an alternator that's about to go? I'll get it tested but was just wondering what you guys think the noise could be.

EDIT: I forgot to mention that this noise goes away when I get above 40mph.

This post has been edited by senick: Jun 1, 2011 - 4:28 PM

[Smaay]

you need to pop your hood and track it down.

[senick]

Yeah, I know. Although now the sound pretty much stops when idling. If rev in neutral though it starts again. The frequency of squeaks gets higher the higher the revs, so I'm wondering if it has anything to do with the timing belt. But those don't really squeak right? Suppose I'll just lubricate it and see if that changes anything.
I checked the alternator today though. Disconnected the battery when the car was running, and it was going fine. So, I'm still thinking.

[delusionz]

the belt thats squeeking is most likely too tight, it's probably the alternator one, can you see the tensioner bolt, you either tighten or undo it to loosen the belt a little i cant remember which but you'll figure it out.

when the alternator belt is done up it should have exactly enough free play for the belt to be twisted 90 degrees, no more, no less.

also you dont need to regularly spay you belts with silicone, they should be on at the correct tightness to function correctly and not squeel. dirt and crap from the road sticks to silicone, you dont want dirt stuck to your belts

[senick]

Well, I tried playing with the belt tension, but I'm not sure how much to twist the nut before it will make a difference. I didn't want to torque it too much in either direction. Is there a set torque the tensioner bolt should be at?

[PolliS_5S-FE]

does it squeal when cold? and does it get worse with aircon, acc etc on? Mine used to make that noise, chalked the belt once a week for a while and it went away, maybe u cud try it

[senick]

It doesn't make a noise right away. It needs to warm up a bit, maybe drive half a mile or so, then it starts squealing. I haven't turned the air on or radio because I don't want to chance overloading the alternator. I'll tighten it tomorrow and see if that helps. The belts are less than 2 years old and look to be in good shape, can't see why they would need to be replaced. I'll see about chalking them though, sounds worth a try.