SpecialtyConcreteCoatings

My car just starting squealing something awful today. It sounds awful. And it doesn't go away until I hit about 45mph. What am I looking at?

hockeydude

Belt(s) that need replaced/tensioned would be my first guess...

Gator_86_951

Accessory belt?

tyro

I just watched Deliverance the other day!

More info needed..squeaks while car is at a stop? Varies with idle?

KuHL 951

Probably an accessory V-belt, more than likely power steering. The ribbed AC belts are pretty quiet even when loose. Timing and balance shaft belts won't squeal, they will whine like a supercharger and or just break. If it squeals the worst on cold starts it's a V-belt. Tighten the PS turnbuckle and see if it goes away.

Andial951

my money is on the AC belt..........

SpecialtyConcreteCoatings

It varies as I accelerate. It does not squeal when at a stop. What else should I check for to figure out what belt it is?

tyro

So if you're at a stop, and "rev it up", does it squeal?

SpecialtyConcreteCoatings

I believe it does not squeal when I'm at a stop, but I'll check for sure tomorrow.

harrisonrick

I agree on the AC belt...also, maybe a tensioner is starting to go? The alterator bearing starting to go?

Good luck...keep us posted.

Sparky_NY

Normally, if its a power steering belt, it will get much worse when you turn the steering wheel while sitting at idle. (puts a lot more load on the belt)

A similar test for the alternator belt is to turn on the high beam headlights, foot on the brake, fan on high, all the electrical load you can find, if its the alternator belt things will squeal a lot more when the load is increased.

rollis

Are you seeing a drop in voltage when it squeals?

tk's944

If all belts are tight and it squeals when you turn the wheel it could be a worn power steering belt or like the previous owner of my car did it was the wrong type of belt.