1998 Ford Explorer Screeching Noises

1998 FORD EXPLORER
150,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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YNCRET
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
When I start from a standing start with the lights on and heater/ac running the vehicle makes a loud screeching noise and it draws down on the battery/alternator indicator. If I turn the heater off the noise will sometimes go away.

If I turn the heater/ac on after the vehicle is moving at 15 mph or more I do not have the screeching sound. If I slow down below 15 or coast down a hill to maintain the speed limit it will start screeching too. I don't know if it's the battery or alternator.

Can you help, please?
Feb 21, 2009 at 7:36 PM
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JGAROFALO
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 489 POSTS
Check your serpentine belt. It may have become too large from stretching. Also check the tensioner, as it may not be keeping the belt tensioned properly. Bad bearings in the tensioner or idler pulleys can also cause noise problems.
Feb 22, 2009 at 9:04 AM
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