Mazda 626 screeching...need help

[champs1188]

for the last few days after i start my 98 mazda 626 V6, its been making this very loud screeching noise, after researching it more it seems like it is the timing belt or a problem with the belt system. The noise stops after i rev the engine a few times, and doesnt come back on until i restart my car after a few hours. Does anyone have any thoughts on this? I need some help with knowing if this is the problem and how fast i have to get this problem resolved. I have a 240 mile trip back home next weekend after finals, and need to know if i need to fix this before i go back or if it is something i need to do ASAP. I would really appreciate the information

[OhSchnapps]

Nothing to worry about. The "Serpentine Belt" is a little loose. My car did it too, i took it to the shop and my mechanic tightened it for free. I'm sure there's a tension screw or something somewhere to tighten it yourself, i just never took the time to look for it.

[champs1188]

Thanks, ill take it in to my mazda dealer soon, i was just making sure it wasnt something vital like the timing belt, appreciate the help and the information

[NETC_Redd]

don't bother with the stealership, tighten it up yourself! try to see which one is making the noise. for the alt belt the tensioner is on the top, for the rear belt it's on the bottom. for either one you have to loosen the idler pulleys.

[DTM_jody]

serpintine belt, replace it
(IMO: dealers know what there doing compared to those small shops.
IF you have dealer moeny. LOL)