High pitched squeak with lower gas mileage -- HELP

FORD RANGER
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JIMATDKS
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I have a 1999 Ford Ranger (4.0 v6) with about 130,000 miles. Recently I have been hearing a high pitched squeak from the engine compartment...almost like a whistle. The noise is constant, but, as I accelerate, it gets much louder. I figured it was my belt, but, I am getting less gas mileage now as well. Can a old belt cause the gas mileage to decrease? Is it possible that one of the pulleys is seizing up and is causing the squeak and the lower gas mileage? Any help will be appreciated!
Aug 2, 2007 at 1:06 AM
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JWALTH02
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Get a bottle of water, start your engine, and pour the water on the belt. If the squeaking stops, it's the belt, if not then it's a pulley. And if you're getting less mileage out of it then most likely one of the pulleys are seizing and causing a bigger strain on the engine which uses more power and gas. Let us know how it goes.
Aug 2, 2007 at 3:58 AM
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