Squeaking noise from front cover area

[allthrottle]

Lately, I've been noticing a strange squeaking or rubbing noise from the engine. It sounds like it's coming from the power steering/water pump area, but I can't quite figure out where, or what it could be. It doesn't seem to make any noise when first started and idling in the morning, or while accelerating. I only notice it after driving for more than a few minutes, when I come to a stop and let it idle.

- It isn't coming from a loose or bad belt.
- Doesn't seem to be coming from the alternator
- Sounds like it's around the powersteering and waterpump area.
- Powersteering pump doesn't seem to whine much when I crank to wheel lock to lock
- Is a squeaking/rubbing type sound that is consistent with engine rpm. I don't notice it after 1300rpm(give or take a couple hundred rpm). It isn't very loud, and isn't a squealing sound.

I know without a video this is going to be tough over the internet, but some input/suggestion possibilities would be much appreciated. This hasn't seemed to cause any problems yet, but I'd like to narrow it down or diagnose and replace whatever it is before it does go out. It makes my engine sound worn out

Thanks

 

[Lofty]

Have a look at your crank pulley.

Check the rubber in it, I can bet its all ockies.

 

[allthrottle]

I didn't think about that, thanks. I was leaning more towards a bad bearing on whatever pulley the powersteering belt is attached to. How hard is the crank pulley to remove? Is it just the 4 bolts?

 

[Lofty]

Yessir.

You can look up fluidampr if you are interested in one without rubber!