I have pinpointed the source of the turbine/whine noise that I mentioned previously. I'd like to get some suggestions/opinions before I do anything.
The noise is a whine/hum that starts up delayed a few seconds or more after the engine is started. I thought it came on instantly, but it kind of reminds me of the old sirens that you had to crank up by hand. They started up slowly but then maintained a steady tone. This sound seems to be coming from the engine area behind/around the distributor cap. The sound is audible from inside the car, and from quite a distance away from the car.

Any suggestions? I have a .wav file of the sound, if it helps.

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Pull off your airbox. Under that is a 1 inch rubber boot covering your inspection hole on the upper right hand side of your timing belt cover - pull it off. Now temporarily dislocate the the number of neck vertibrae necessary to peer into that hole while getting light into it (good f-ing luck). You may also remove the outer cover completely. Check for belt fray. Do not start the car until you do so.

 

It still sounds like your belts (most likely balance shaft belt) are/(is) to tight. I had the same problem, loosen the belt, see if the noise goes away.

To fittle with the belts, remove both Power Steering and Alternator belts. Remove both timing covers. You need a 24mm open end wrench to loosen and tighten the balance shaft belt tensioner. Don't play the timing belt, unless you are planning to take it to a shop to get proper tension.

The easiest way, however, is to take the car to a shop and have your belts re-tensioned (needs to be done every 15k miles anywhay). It costs around $100 and you will know if its your belts...

Thanks.