Ser­pen­tine belt chirp

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

You are correct. It is an automatic tensioner on the vehicle. If you look at the attached picture, number 2 in the picture is what is called an idler pulley tensioner. Tension is maintained via a spring in the pulley assembly.

Now, the proper way to test tension is by using a hand held scale to determine how much weight pressure needs applied before the belt moves a specific degree. However, take your hand and pull on the belt. Without the belt tensioner moving because of pressure, the belt shouldn't move much more than 3/4". If it does,. replace the tensioner.

Next thing. You mentioned a chirping. Make sure there are no leaks such as coolant getting on the belt. That can cause the belt to chirp until it dissipates then the noise will stop.

Here are a couple links you may want to look through:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-serpentine-belt-tensioner-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/serpentine-belt-tensioner-replacement

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

You mentioned pulling on the tensioner. exactly how hard should i pull? :) if i just pull with a couple fingers it's right on. but if i pull harder i can get more movement. :/

Actually, pull on the belt. It shouldn't move more than approximately 3/4" before the tensioner starts moving. There will be some belt movement, but if the tensioner starts moving before you hit approximately a 3/4" movement on the belt, replace it.

Also, reconfirm there is nothing getting on the belt. I have seen many water pumps drip coolant onto the belt causing a chirping.

Take care,
Joe

Thank you for that way of checking the tensioner. i had to go outside and check i probably got 3/4 maybe an inch before the tensioner moved. it's kind of hard to judge. I'll look again tomorrow when it's light out. if anything it started to move a bit sooner. i think I'm okay. very clear way to tell. thanks!

going to post for an opinion on Lucas oil stop leak :) next.

I hope it helps. Do you have oil leaks? Could that be getting on the belt?

I have to be honest, I had a similar vehicle today that I replaced the intake gasket on. It's very common for them to fail and leak coolant. It's just a thought.

Let me know if you have other questions or I can help.

Take care,

Joe

i had minor leaks. i'm not seeing any coolant leaks. cross my fingers as that would be a junk it out thing for me. the car runs great. no oil on belt..
actually after the Lucas any seep is gone. the car sat for a year before it was gifted to me. i really don't want to repair a bunch of things and then, kaput. so far. starter, AC compressor, brakes, door actuator. serpentine belt. and the rear defrost. i need a car but not a headache. thanks, Don

Happy to help. Take care, Don, and let us know if you have questions in the future.

Joe