Removing the belt completely might reveal 3 other possibilities
1) One of your pulleys does not turn freely (bearings)
2) There maybe sideways play/ wobble in a pulley (worn bearings)
3) The tensioner may not be tracking true due to wear
* Other than a belt or pulley problem, watch the A/C clutch while the motor is running. Sometimes the inner most part of the pulley (clutch) might drag with the a/c off and all "defrost" modes w/ heater are off. Basically what I mean is, if the compressor were completely the inner part should not drag or move at all. But they do at times. Could be a bad clutch.
If the noise only occurs when the A/C is on or in a heater "defrost" mode. Investigate the A/C compressor to possibly have bad bearings or getting ready to seize up
If you are able to get in there, a 3 foot or so piece of heater are garden hose may help. Shove one end in your ear, use the other like a stethoscope to pin down the noise (I have found that an earplug in your "free" ear helps too!)
WATCH OUT FOR THOSE PESKY MOVING PARTS. THEY CAN PUT A HURTIN' ON YOU ! ! !
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Friday, January 13th, 2012 AT 2:50 PM