Hello to all! I tried searching previous threads but couldn't find what I'm looking for...

Is there an easy/safe way of locating a slight bearing hum noise from one of the engine's accessories while it's running? I started hearing a faint squeaking noise while the engine's idling lately. Oddly enough when I rev it, it kind of disappears. This can simply be because it's so faint now that the ginormous fan is drowning it out.

I replaced the complete water pump, idler and tensioner pulleys roughly 6 years ago, as well as the fan clutch. My alternator (as far as I can tell) is original although it stills works like a champ. I probably just jinxed myself with that last comment... The only other thing I can think of is the AC compressor or the PS pump?

Any help is appreciated and thanks in advance,

Mark

 

my ps has been making noise for the last 50,000 miles....

 

Then I REALLY hope it's the PS! But I still need to locate it properly. Any tips on probing while the engine's running?

 

Take a stick or board or long screw driver or stethoscope and listen thu that device while you probe. Makes it easy to hear the ruckus inside the unit. Be careful of dreadlocks around rotating machinery, that goes for powder puff mechanics as well, a serpantine belt has zero respect for a pony tail.

 

I'll give the screwdriver option a shot. Thanks for your help!

 

You can try this too:

 

Maybe it's just me but I didn't understand what was going on in the video... I'll watch it over a few more times to see if I can make sense of it

 

Changing stress on belt by varying load via the tensioner. But working with rotating machinery, no machine guard, maybe no eye protection, not what you want to do. Screw driver or a broom handle. Every garage has one or the other, usually both. Start by listening to the alternator, you'll hear how it works.

 

Wow... I'm not brave enough to try that method, especially while balancing a camera. It's too cold out now so I hope to be able to put my ear to it this weekend. Thanks for the tips Buzz!

 

With the engine off, squirt a little spray lube (pick your poison) on ONE bearing (I usually start with the tensioner). Start the engine and see if it went away. If it didn't, shut it down and pick the next accessory and repeat. You'll figure it out soon enough, or you'll narrow it down (can't use this method on an internal noise from the p/s, for example).