signs of a bad power steering pump

[section8]

A few months ago, my car began sqeeling when I started it up and replaced the alternator belt hoping to fix it, which it didn't. Well a few months go and I wasn't worried and now everytime I steer, it feels like I have no power steering and it still squeels real bad for a few minutes. Could this be the actual power steering belt going bad or would a new belt fix this? I'm on limited funds thanks to the holidays, so don't want to spend money if it won't fix it. Is there anything else besides the pump and belt that will cause me not to have any power steering? I don't know if this helps, but I put my fmic a few months ago and had to bend the power steering cooler line, but it's freaking 20 degrees here, so think it's not getting too hot or anything. Yes, the steering fluid is topped off and fine. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[oldman]

If the belts have been replaced and correctly tensioned, have someone start the car while you stare at the crank pulley for any signs of horizontal movement. If so, the crank pulley needs to be replaced.

 

[JohnnyC]

Is the PS belt tensioned properly?