squeeling coming from under the hood!!!

[upshiftN]

Hey.. i'm new to this forum in terms of posting, but i've read a bunch of posts from people. But anyways, i have a problem that doesn't seem serious, but i could be wrong int he long run. I start my car and i hear this horrible squeeling noise coming from somewhere under the hood... depending on how cold the car is... determines how long the squeeling lasts for.. sometimes up to 45 seconds, which is totally annoying. I first thought it had to do with something near the belts... or the fans or something, but based on some other threads i have thought maybe the alternator. But it does this EVERY time i start my car in cooler temps, i haven't had the car yet in warm weather cause i just bought it in november! Anyways, it's a 1997 eclipse gst, with 83k miles. Any info would be greatly appreciated on what my problem is.

 

[Coldandafraid]

its just a cold belt rubbing a bit. you can check your belts for the proper tension. Or, dont worry about it, happens in most cars.

 

[luv2rallye]

I agree it's the classic belt sqweel that goes away when it warms up. Just adjust tension (usually it's too loose or you've got the wrong belt on). If you can't figure out which one, just remove one at a time and listen.

 

[crankbender]

here is the easier test. Cycle the ac on and off...if this effects the squeel then it is the AC belt. Turn the wheel side to side if this effects the squeel it is the ps belt.

Not 100% but it is quick and dirty.

you should check the tension on allyour belts tho.

 

[rice_rocket]

I bet it's the alternater belt. Yes, try the a/c fan turn it on and off see if it squeals, also turn the wheel and see if it squeals. I betcha if on the cold start it turns on, it would be the alternator belt.

If you're out of ideas you could always try to meet me. I noticed your location, I just moved into Wellesley in Jan... maybe you'll see me fly by one of these days

 

[upshiftN]

hey guy... yeah i mean i dunno what's goin on here. It sounds like it's a belt problem and they might need tightening, and i did notice that after i start the car up and it stops squeeling, when i start driving and then i decide to turn on the air or maybe turn on the lights, sometimes it starts squeeling again, until i turn it off or wait for it to stop on it's own. But definately a belt problem. Rice rocket hit me up since you live in my town guy. Thanks

 

[Enigma_Man]

Yeah, it's a loose belt.

If you turn off all the lights and stuff, and it stops, or you turn them all on (and the rear defogger) and it starts, then your alt.belt is loose, or your alternator is dying, and starting to pull real hard on the belt.

Check the tension, also make sure the belt isn't dirty at all, and if it is, some "belt dressing" will clean it up.

-Jesse