squeaking noise in '88 firebird pully system!!!?

[da bo$$]

i have an 88 pontiac firebird with a v6 (w/ a/c)and in the past i had a problem with the water pump. it made a loud squeking noise while turning. so i replaced it and the noise was gone. then a month ago, the squeak came back. so i replaced the water pump and the noise was still there. then i replaced the alternator thinking it might be that. the noise is still there. i was wondering what the other parts attactched to the pulley system were called and which one might be producing this squeak.. the noise sounds like a water pump squeak but is a little faster and louder.. please help..

 

[Eric F]

it's probably the belt tensioner and/or Idler pully.

water pumps don't really squeak because they're constantly being lubricated via the antifreeze.
alternator's don't really squeak unless the bearings are giving out.
the belt tensioner and idler pullys can squeak for a while stop when they get warmer because the grease inside has disapated and/or leaking out.
could also be the tensioner unit itself. These are EASY things to replace anyway.
the idler is located on the right side of the motor if you're facing it.
the tensioner is under the air intake hose.

 

[Mr. T]

Remove the serpentine belt spin the accessories. You should be able to narrow down the source.
1. Idler pulley
2. A/C Pulley
3. Alternator
4. Air Pump
5. Water Pump
6. P/S Pump

»»»

 

[Mikemikeice]

I don't know what is causing the squeak but the power steering pump is also attached to pulley system, make sure your fluid levels for it are right. Most cars also have a tension pulley, this keeps the belt at the right tension so it doesn't fly off.

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[tony b]

Take a broom stick and hold it against the different components. Then put your ear to the stick. The noise will travel up the stick and you will be able to determine where the squeak is coming from.

 

[wde3477]

Just replaced the tensioner assembly - $44 from rockauto.com. As others have suggested - use various means - broomstick, or removing the belt and spinning individual components to narrow down the source.

In my case - the tensioner was evident when it was spun. Another clue was that it was bouncing around wildly while running. While the car is 21 model years old, it only has 93,000 miles on it - so I guess anything is possible.