Belt Squeaking Noise...HELP!

[doindunes]

Hello,

 

I have a 2003 Tahoe with the 5.3 and 58,000 miles. The belt or something started to make majoe squeel last me both under throttle and idle. I of course purchased a new belt and while off noticed the alternator pulley was making noise. I assumed the bearing, so purchased a new alternatoe. I then out it all together and it was still there, only just at idle. So I replaced the belt tensioner as well....Still there. I am at my wits end. I know there is another belt that runs the a/c, but I had that off. It seems to be worse on cold damp days here in MI. I have heard rumors that my power steering pulley may need to be lined back up and that there was a service bulliten written on this? Please advise. This is going to drive me insane! Thanks in advance.

 

Best Regards,

Dan

[GM-Tech]

There's no TSB that applies to your model year, but yes, the p.s. pulley seems to be the biggest cause of alignment induced belt squeaks. This is usually not a constant squeal but a regular chirp, chirp, chirp.

 

The pulley is supposed to be flush with the end of the pump shaft. Sometimes we have to go in or out a little to get rid of the noise.

[doindunes]

There's no TSB that applies to your model year, but yes, the p.s. pulley seems to be the biggest cause of alignment induced belt squeaks.  This is usually not a constant squeal but a regular chirp, chirp, chirp.

 

The pulley is supposed to be flush with the end of the pump shaft.  Sometimes we have to go in or out a little to get rid of the noise.

 

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Thanks very much! I guess it could be decribed as a chirp. I will have a look and see where the pulley is on the shaft, or just take it to the dealer since I cannot move it anyway. I do have a big hammer................

 

Dan

[GM-Tech]

Uhhh, you definitely don't want to whack the pulley on with a hammer!

[dewfpo]

Thanks GM-Tech,

 

My '05 2500HD with the 8.1L has had a chirp, chirp, chirp at idle since new.

 

DEWFPO

[2500HD Gasser]

Thanks GM-Tech,

 

My '05 2500HD with the 8.1L has had a chirp, chirp, chirp at idle since new.

 

DEWFPO

 

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My 8.1 developed the same chirp at 2k miles. After a new alternator and belt chirp went away only to return again at 8k miles. GM put another new belt on and chirp gone again untill 12k miles and the process was repeated again at 16k miles. At 18k miles I went to Advance Auto and purchased a new Gates ribbed belt (which prevents heat buildup) no chirp since, now at 56K miles. You can deduct what you want from my experience but to me it's clear what the problem was.

[doindunes]

Thanks GM-Tech,

 

My '05 2500HD with the 8.1L has had a chirp, chirp, chirp at idle since new.

 

DEWFPO

 

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My 8.1 developed the same chirp at 2k miles. After a new alternator and belt chirp went away only to return again at 8k miles. GM put another new belt on and chirp gone again untill 12k miles and the process was repeated again at 16k miles. At 18k miles I went to Advance Auto and purchased a new Gates ribbed belt (which prevents heat buildup) no chirp since, now at 56K miles. You can deduct what you want from my experience but to me it's clear what the problem was.

 

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I think I will try another belt!!!!!! Thanks!

[busta]

I have a pretty bad squeal in the mornings when it is cold out...is that normal or is it a sign a new belt is in the near future 2000 Sierra 5.3

[GM-Tech]

A squeal is not normal. Whether or not you need a new belt is something I can't tell you.

[pm26]

A few words of advice: Gates makes good quality belts. Stay away from cheap stuff becuase they will cause more trouble than they are worth. I usually buy automotive belts from NAPA. I have a commercial size military truck and had persistent belt squeal and constant belt loosening when I used cheap Autozone belts on the alternator and the air compressor belt (the truck has engine driven air compressor). NAPA sells heavy duty commercial Gates belts. They are identified by a green stripe. I bought these for my military truck and what a difference! No more belt loosening or squealing! These belts are not cheap but you get what you pay for!