Nasty Squealing

[Don Mega]

Hello All,

I recently changed the serp belt on my Bonne as it was cracked and needed to be replaced. Maybe 2 days after I changed the belt I noticed a squealing noise developing. I took the belt off and checked my pulleys for any play or noises. Well the tensioner pulley was worn and needed to be replaced and I was also getting some squeaking coming from the alternator pulley. I wanted to be proactive so i replaced the alternator and the entire tensioner which came wth a new pulley. Put everything back together, started her up and all was great for about 20 minutes. After that the squeal came back louder than ever. All my pulleys are good, the belt is new, but the squeal wont leave. I did get a little anitfreeze on the belt from changing the tensioner so I am wondering if that could be the cause or maybe just a faulty belt. I am at wits end with this and could really use some help. Thanks for reading!

[Skippy1827]

I was told antifreeze is not good on a belt, in fact, a mechanic replaced mine because they got antifreeze on the belt while working onthe engine

[Don Mega]

That is what I was told also. I have just picked up a new Gatorback belt and will replace it after work. I will post my results as it seems there are a few of us that have had this problem. I found a few threads on this very same problem but none that confirm what was done to fix the issue. I hope it's the belt because I cant stand the squeal...

[olblueeyesbonne]

You sure it's from the belt/pulley system?
I have a very loud squeal that comes from the right cooling fan when it kicks in. Sounds like something is dying.
I have the fan to replace it but am too lazy and although the one in there is embarrassing it still works.

[Blownville]

I have had a bad expierence with a squeal in my 95. I replaced the complete tensioner assembly and within 6 months it started squealing so I warranted a replacement pulley and it lasted about 2-3 months. At that time my brother was up from Texas he is a mechanic of 25 years and does all my big jobs. He noticed that the arm on the new tensioner was not sitting right and burning out the pulley bearing. So we warranted another tensioner assembly and replaced it. So far it has been fine although it still squeals from time to time when its raining and wet out. Just my 2 cents.

[Don Mega]

Thank you all for your feedback. I went ahead and replaced the belt with the Gatorback belt I had bought and viola!! Problem solved, no more squealing! My problem was the belt all along. The car is running as smooth as butter now. Can barely hear the engine now it's so smooth. What bugs me is that it was a brand new belt. I am going to return it today to try to get my money back from it. I have learned my lesson and I will not skimp when it comes to the belt drive. It's Gatorback from here on out! Thank guys!