chirping / squeaking
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,501
Likes: 185
From: Erie PA
chirping / squeaking
So I picked up my 98 C5 yesterday. test drive, everything was find and the drive home (7+ ) it was fine. the next time I started it, it was squealing. I squirted some wd40 and silicon on a couple of the pulleys. the only ones that make a difference are the ones more towards the under the top idler and the alternator. if I squirt them just a touch, they stop for a few seconds. I finally got it so that it doesn't do it at an idle (under 1000 rpm) but as soon as I step on the gas, it squeals. REALLY ANNOYING!!!! I like the fact that people look at my car because it's a nice vette, but can't stand the idea of people looking at it because it's squealing LOL
I'd rather not just start replacing parts (idler pulley, belt, water pump, alternator , etc.)
what's the best way to quite the annoyance ???
I'd rather not just start replacing parts (idler pulley, belt, water pump, alternator , etc.)
what's the best way to quite the annoyance ???
Pro
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 653
Likes: 0
The idler pulley is the only one in the area you describe that has a bearing you'd hit by squirting lube under it. Alternator pulley has no bearing in that space, it's an interference fit onto the alternator shaft and the bearings are inside the alternator case.
I've had no luck finding a replacement idler pulley at any of the chain stores, but the local dealer was able to get me one for around $20. Ekler's has a picture of the part:
http://www.ecklerscorvette.com/corve...1997-2004.html
I'd also eyeball the crankshaft damper/pulley assembly while the engine is idling to see if it's wobbling. These are known to fail and chirping sound is the usual early warning sign. If the pulley is wiggling at all while the engine is running (best viewing angle is the passenger side looking nearly straight down at it) it's time for a new one.
I've had no luck finding a replacement idler pulley at any of the chain stores, but the local dealer was able to get me one for around $20. Ekler's has a picture of the part:
http://www.ecklerscorvette.com/corve...1997-2004.html
I'd also eyeball the crankshaft damper/pulley assembly while the engine is idling to see if it's wobbling. These are known to fail and chirping sound is the usual early warning sign. If the pulley is wiggling at all while the engine is running (best viewing angle is the passenger side looking nearly straight down at it) it's time for a new one.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,501
Likes: 185
From: Erie PA
I did notice the main pulley wobbling very slightly, but it wasn't very much. the car has 66k miles on it....do they usually fail that quick?
how hard is it to do the change on the main pulley? the only car I've done a harmonic balancer on was a 92 ford tempo. took the short cut of cutting a hole in the wheel well to access it.....
Pro
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 653
Likes: 0
Do a search here on "balancer wobble" and you'll get an idea of their tendency to fail.
Replacement involves dropping the steering rack. And the main balancer bolt is a big mother that will take over 200 lb/ft to loosen.
Replacement involves dropping the steering rack. And the main balancer bolt is a big mother that will take over 200 lb/ft to loosen.
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From: Lynnfield MA
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I just ordered a new billet main belt tensioner and the 3 other pulleys that are for the 2 belts. I had the same squeal around 1000-1500 RPM and it was driving me nuts. I figured that if 1 is gone the others would not be far behind...
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,501
Likes: 185
From: Erie PA
I looked at the groves on the main pully and there is barely a wobble. It looks like there are two belts on the main pulley and I'm assuming one is for the A/C? Anyways, the one closer to the engine looked almost rusty, so i hit it with a quick shot of silicon spray. The squeaking quit for a quick trip (about 3 miles) as well as the entire ride to work (about 11 miles). The test will be right after work when I'm on the way home. Usually anything i spray will only eliminate it for about 2 minutes.
I plan on changing the belt(s) and idlers but really don't want to do the main if I don't have to.
I plan on changing the belt(s) and idlers but really don't want to do the main if I don't have to.
