Loud squealing noise a minute after start up

MI30189

MEMBER
1977 FORD E-SERIES VAN
140,000 MILES

When I start the van up, about a minute after starting it starts to squeal real loud. How can I pin point if it is the idler bearing, or the power steering pump or the alternator?
Thank you,
Mark

Wednesday, November 21st, 2018 AT 11:21 AM

5 Replies

BMDOUBLE

MECHANIC
1,139 POSTS

The safest way, even though it is the most intrusive, is to start by removing the drive belt from the components you suspect and rotate the pulleys by hand. You can also take a stethoscope and carefully (staying away from moving parts) feel and hear for excess vibrations at the rear of each component. Have a look at the power steering fluid with a light to check for sparkly bits also.

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Wednesday, November 21st, 2018 AT 11:41 AM

MI30189

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50 POSTS

Hi BMDouble,

Thank you for your quick input I will give it a look at it after the holiday.
Thank you,
Maek

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Thursday, November 22nd, 2018 AT 10:31 AM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,480 POSTS

Another quick way is to mist a bit of plain water onto the belt in front of each suspected item so the belt carries the water over it, if the noise changes the instant you spray the water on, look at that item. Also, when was the last time the belt itself was replaced?

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Friday, November 23rd, 2018 AT 2:29 PM

MI30189

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50 POSTS

Hi Steve! I tried what u said to try with the water first, I found it to be the power steering pump. I changed out the pump and a new belt, now all is quiet.
Thank you,
Mark

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Saturday, November 24th, 2018 AT 2:02 AM

STEVE W.