Loud whining/squealing coming from the engine?

1987 CHEVROLET CAMARO
104,000 MILES • 5.0L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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CAJUNATOR
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Started the car today and the engine has a loud whining coming from it. I removed the serpentine belt and started it for a short time to rule out the alternator, and the whine persisted. It sounds like it's coming from the carb/distributor area but it's hard to tell. It changes when giving it throttle but doesn't change when turning the steering wheel.
Apr 10, 2024 at 5:02 PM
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CAJUNATOR
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Attached is a video of the sound.
Video (Click to enlarge)
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Apr 10, 2024 at 5:23 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Good Lord, that has to be enough to make you crazy. LOL First, I watched the video. Check to make sure the V-belt isn't making contact with the shaft/pulley with nothing attached.

Next, it sounded like the noise stopped when you first hit the throttle. Pay attention and let me know if that is the case. If it is, check to make sure there are no vacuum hoses leaking. When you first hit the throttle, the engine vacuum drops. That is something else to consider.

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 10, 2024 at 6:43 PM
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STEVE W.
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Try a quick test. Take a length of hose (heater, garden or similar) Put an ear plug in one ear and put one end of the hose tight to the other ear. Now take the open end and move it around on the front of the engine until you find the loudest point and look in that area. It almost sounds like the old straight cut gear drive cam set ups but those tended to growl a bit deeper.
Apr 10, 2024 at 11:29 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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Hi,

Another thought is a possible cause could be related to the carburetor gasket or even a loose carburetor. Make sure to check that as well.

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 11, 2024 at 7:29 PM
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