WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

which pulley it is. Hello Fellas, I have a bad pulley and I'm trying to figure out which one it is. How do I go through the process of doing this?


Thanks!

WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

It's making a low squealing noise when I start driving. I don't think it's the idler pulley but I'm not sure. I'm think I'm picking up on a little burnt rubber smell but I'm not sure. When I hear the sound again I will record it but it takes a while of driving to start. I have the car running in my driveway, hopefully I can get back to you all will a sound. I checked to see if any of the pulleys were loose but they all seem pretty tight.

WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

... In the past 4 months I've replaced: the water pump, alternator, and fan clutch. I replaced the belt last year, and the idler pulley a couple of years ago.

WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

So, after idling for about 15 minutes, the sound kicked in. I'm moving quite a bit in this video because I'm trying to determine where the sound is coming from. Maybe you will be able to be more objective. I love my jeep! Thank you.

SteveMongr

Was not able to watch the video but, has the serpentine belt been retightened since it was installed? Tension checked? They can stretch a small amount during 'break-in'.
If it is not up to spec then it can drag on one of the pulleys.
Rule out the simple item first.

WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

recently and picked up a replacement at pull -a -part. The tension on the belt should be about 12 o'clock right?

Sebastianc2012

Came in to say check the tension, but I'm unfamiliar with measuring tension with the hours of a clock? Does it happen when you do a specific thing or just after it idled for a while?

If you can't see any loose pulleys while it's making the noise you probably just need to tighten up the belt slightly, might take a bit of testing to find just the right tension if you don't have anything to measure it.

Firestorm500

Sounds like the clutch bearings on the air conditioner compressor could be causing the noise.

Does it change when you turn the A/C on?

Also, you should be able to deflect the belt a total of 1" at the longest span between pulleys if the tension is correct.

Are you buying used belts?

SteveMongr

Tension is usually measured by deflection of a specific length of belt.
On passenger side, longest exposed portion of belt between AC clutch and alternator, deflection by hand should be minimal, no more than 1/2' in either direction. 1" total. Belt should feel very tight.

WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

Tried with the a/c and heat, they don't initiate it. Only after driving for a while. I bought the belt brand new, the more expensive one. Also, when I say 12 o'clock, it's an illustration of being able to turn the belt to the point where the left side turns straight up to the sky. If it's supposed to be one inch then I need to tighten it a little. Also, see this pic,
s this voltage correct?

WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

In that case, it's much too loose. Let me tighten it.

SteveMongr

Hijacking your own thread? lol
Voltage looks normal, for the stock gauge.

WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

SIDE NOTE:
Yes apparently so! Lol. I just want to know if this is the same voltage the auto stores check to determine voltages for batteries and alternators?

WomanNeedsJeepExpertise

I tightened the belt, it still a little more than 1", like it could be tighter but it won't turn anymore. Any tips? I will be leaving to go to work in a half hour. I will report back tonight. Hopefully, no more squealing.

SteveMongr

Sort of, but not really. The alternator and battery diagnostics that a shop uses are much more sophisticated than a gauge and the readings come direct from the alt or battery.
Also, their tool can 'load test' a battery and give a reading.