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2001 Pontiac Grand Am

Question: High Pitched Squeak/Sqeal

Question

BigReox7, 2.4L 4 Cylinder, Fishers, IN, February 05, 2011, 10:55
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 Enthusiast

When I start my car I have a high pitch squeal coming from the belt area in the front of my car. I just changed the Alternator cause I thought it was that...Still sqeals. I checked the serpentine belt and its still in 90% great condition. I have narrowed it down to either the belt tentioner or the A/C unit. Anyone have a way I could tell if it was one or the other?? The squeal is so loud i cant tell which one it is coming from.

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  • Answer #1

    Superbob February 05, 2011, 11:50
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     Master

    Pull the belt off and see if the alternator or the A/C compressor is binding. It's possible for the tensioner to wear out and lose it's bearing or tension. You'll have to figure that out for yourself. How old is the belt and how much time has it spent squealing (slipping and burning the rubber)? I think you need a new belt. FYI, the alternator load on the drive belt after starting is high, also if the battery's needing a charge. But the alternator and compressor pulley should spin smooth and free with the belt off.

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    BigReox7, February 10, 2011, 15:39
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    Thank you for that advice. I took off the old belt and spun the pulley for the A/C compressor and the alternator. They both spun fine and freely. I looked at the bet and it was in alot worse shape than I thought. I replaced the belt and now everything is as good as new. No squeal with the new belt. Thanks again!! :)

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