I have a squeal from the engine after warm. Only at idle. My engine is the 22rec

1988 TOYOTA PICKUP
150,000 MILES
Avatar
TRADIO
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
If you increase the rpm just a little, it stops.When it goes back to idle, the squeal comes back. When you shut the engine off, the squeal continues until the engine stops turning.If when it's idling the squeal isn't there, you can put the emergency brake on, put it in gear and slowly let out on the clutch and the squeal gets worse. I've tried locating the squeal with a stethoscope but haven't been able to. It kind of sounds like the front of the alternator. The alternator is only a couple months old. If you use a rubber hose as a stethoscope, it seems loudest around the oil filler cap.It idles smoothly, so I don't think it is a vacuum leak.
Nov 13, 2011 at 3:11 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Try this trick... Take a small cup of water and pour it on the belt when you hear the noise. Let me know if the noise changes.
Nov 13, 2011 at 3:33 AM
Avatar
TRADIO
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Jacobandnickolas,
I did what you suggested. After I poured water on the belts, it made a loud chirp and the rpm dropped momentarily. I'm not sure if the rpm dropped and then the chirp or vice versa. The squeal did not seem to change.
Thanks
Tom
Nov 14, 2011 at 7:32 PM
Avatar
THIS IS MIKE
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 686 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Sometimes the pulley bearings can fail and squeak along the way. Remove the belt and inspect all the pulleys by hand spinning them. Even though the alternator is new, it may have a bad bearing as well.
Nov 14, 2011 at 10:07 PM
Avatar
TRADIO
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
It turned out to be the water pump. Thanks for all your help.
Dec 1, 2011 at 4:09 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
That will do it. Glad you found the cause.

Take care, and let us know if you have questions in the future.

Joe
Dec 2, 2011 at 5:08 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.