Squealing when cold sometimes lessens but starts again

DEBORAH LOBE

MEMBER
2005 FORD RANGER
4.0L
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
60,000 MILES

I had the serpentine belt replaced in November and the squeal was gone for about a month. Then it returned with a vengeance! It is really loud when I start it then will lessen as I drive. However, sometimes it will suddenly go back to the loud screech. Sometimes when I make a hard turn it will go away for a few minutes. Sometimes it will get louder when I make a turn. I have been told it is probably the water pump. Someone else said it is the harmonic balance. I need help!

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 AT 2:04 PM

2 Replies

CJ MEDEVAC

MECHANIC
11,004 POSTS

Back to throwing a guess at you!

Belt tension-er is lacking strength (replace)

Maybe it is an idler pulley or the one one the tension-er?

What about watching the A/C compressor pulley, is it at a standstill (locked up) while the engine runs?

The 'turning thing' might disqualify any of that above.

Pal standing beside vehicle (NOT IN FRONT!)

Hood is up

Place vehicle in "Drive" while holding the brake

Now do the same for "Reverse"

If the engine torques really hard (Moves a bunch) Maybe your engine/ transmission mounts are deteriorated. If so, maybe a pulley or the belt is scrubbing against something? Can your pal see this possibility?

The Medic

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Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 AT 4:18 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
54,138 POSTS

Yes I agree with the medic it sounds like the tensioner spring is broken or weak. Here is a guide that will show you what you are in for when replacing the belt tensioner.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/serpentine-belt-tensioner-replacement

Please let me know what you find out

Best, Ken

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Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017 AT 6:11 PM