Strange sounds from the belts area

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

For some reason, the audio recording wasn't uploaded. Can you do that? Also, make sure the belts are dry, clean, and tight. If they are, remove the belt and see if the sound is still present. Keep in mind, the engine will overheat with the belt off, so only run it for a couple seconds, just long enough to see if the sound is gone.

Let me know.

Joe

Welcome back:
I definitely hear it. The first thing I would do is confirm the belt is tight and it doesn't just need adjusted. If it is tight, remove the belt and start the engine for a couple seconds to confirm the sound is gone. If it is, inspect each of the belt driven accessories. Most likely, a bearing is going bad in one of them.

Here are the manufacturer's directions for testing belt tension. However, you can check it without the belt tension gauge. Pull on the belt. If you are able to easily move the belt up and down and the tensioner is moving easily, that is most likely the problem.

Here are the directions. The attached pictures correlate with these directions.

COMPONENT TESTS AND GENERAL DIAGNOSTICS
DRIVE BELT

INSPECTION

1. Check drive belt and pulley for wear, cracks, and fraying. Replace if necessary.

Picture 1
picture 2
2. Measure drive belt tension with a tension gauge.

Deflection
picture 3
3. Measure deflection by applying moderate pressure (22 lb [98 N]) midway between pulleys. Adjust if necessary.

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If you find that the tensioner needs adjusted to tighten the belt, here are the directions. The 4th picture shows bolt orientation as well as which one adjusts the belt.

Loosen pivot bolt B and tensioner mounting bolt A. Do not remove.
Relieve or add tension on drive belt by rotating adjustment bolt C.

You may just have to tighten the belt to eliminate the noise or the belt may just may be old and dried out allowing slippage and the noise. If you want to make it really easy to determine, do this.

Start the engine and open the hood. Pour a small amount of water on the drive belt while the engine is running. If the tone changes, for sure it is the belt or one of the accessories.

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Let me know what you find. I'm curious. Also, if you do determine a bearing has gone bad on one of the belt driven accessories, let me know which one. I will provide you with the directions needed to replace the item.

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Take care and I will watch for your reply.

Joe

Hi, Jenia. It's nice to meet you, too.

Do me a favor. Trying pouring a bit of water on it when it is making noise to see if it changes pitch or goes away. Just take a cup of water and slowly pour it on the belt. Just protect your eyes and clothing because it will most likely fling the water.

Let me know what happens.

Joe

Sounds great. Take care and let me know the results.

Joe