thrilhouse
10-22-2007, 06:29 PM
Awhile back I noticed an occational squeak/squealling noise lasting about 30 seconds when the car was idling. It only happened when it was first started up and would go away once the engine was revved or it was left for 30 secs.
Asked my garage to check it out suggesting it might be the alternator and they ended up installing a bolt kit (apparently it had loosened itself almost off) and changed the alternator belt.
It was fine for about a week (500km). Now the squealling has gotten a lot worse and it's almost any time the car goes to idle at a light or anything.
From what I've read the belt is supposed to be tightened until about a 1/2 inch deflection in the middle or until it stops squeaking. Is this something that can easily be done myself? I'm definately an amateur and all I've done myself on the car (had it for 4 months) is replaced the sway bar bushings. I have a good jack.
How do I accomplish tightening/loosining the belt? Whats the best access point / location to get at everything?
Any info would be appreciated even if it's telling me to take it to a garage. I have a high current drawing amp installed now so I'm guessing a lot more strain on the alternator could be related. Does anyone know symptoms of an alternator on its last legs or how much it costs to replace / upgrade to a larger one? (I dont think I could handle an upgrade b/c of loss of hp!?)
Thanks.
Asked my garage to check it out suggesting it might be the alternator and they ended up installing a bolt kit (apparently it had loosened itself almost off) and changed the alternator belt.
It was fine for about a week (500km). Now the squealling has gotten a lot worse and it's almost any time the car goes to idle at a light or anything.
From what I've read the belt is supposed to be tightened until about a 1/2 inch deflection in the middle or until it stops squeaking. Is this something that can easily be done myself? I'm definately an amateur and all I've done myself on the car (had it for 4 months) is replaced the sway bar bushings. I have a good jack.
How do I accomplish tightening/loosining the belt? Whats the best access point / location to get at everything?
Any info would be appreciated even if it's telling me to take it to a garage. I have a high current drawing amp installed now so I'm guessing a lot more strain on the alternator could be related. Does anyone know symptoms of an alternator on its last legs or how much it costs to replace / upgrade to a larger one? (I dont think I could handle an upgrade b/c of loss of hp!?)
Thanks.