Tracking down squeaks...

[lwg]

I have a squeak that sounds like it could be my alternator or something when I start up the truck in the morning. I'm trying to determine what's causing it and replace it before it goes out "suddenly". I have already replaced the water pump, PS Pump and the idler pulleys in the last few years. Haven't replaced the AC, Alternator or ACE pump yet. What's the easiest way to track down a squeaky bearing?

 

[cyoc62]

I tried the "stethascope" method, a piece of rubber tubing to my ear, moving from part to part trying to determine where my squeak was coming from; it didn't work for me. Then one day I found out; as I ran over my idler pulley mechanism!

From here on, I'll replace that pulley first to see if that fixes the squeak. It's cheap enough to carry as a spare if it doesn't fix the problem.

 

[peter sherman]

first thing I do spray a little lube on the belt to isolate that from the pullies
second pull the belt & give them a spin.. most of the time the spin works if its a pully. If not then I use the screwdriver steth

 

[lwg]

first thing I do spray a little lube on the belt to isolate that from the pullies
second pull the belt & give them a spin.. most of the time the spin works if its a pully. If not then I use the screwdriver steth

I've tried the Screwdriver steth method. It works sometimes. I wish the DII had multiple belts, that would be the easiest way to identify the squeak.

I suppose I'll grab another idler pulley and give it a shot, definitely the easiest and cheapest way. I kind of hope it's my alternator so I can upgrade to a 150A unit. I figure it's on its way out, plus I have a 12% coupon for Napa.

 

[peter sherman]

Larry try spraying the belt while its running with a lube wd or what ever if the noise stops bingo. I wouln't throw parts at it! I am a CB!
I am sure you know belt dressing blows!