tacmedic909

I was having issues with radiator hose so while I was replacing it I went ahead and put a new drive belt on because it was glazed and showing cracks and it had been squealing when I would turn the AC or heat on.
When I replaced the belt I tightened it to specs, so I think, but it is still squealing when I turn the AC or heat on. Question is could this be bad bearings n the compressor or clutch fan or does the belt maybe still need to be tightened? Any responses would be greatly appreciated.

Pelican

If all belt driven components are in good condition, belt needs to be tighter. Tighten just until squealing stops, no more, no less.

What did you use to gauge tension and to what specs?

tacmedic909

Pretty much what the book says. A ruler.

Pelican

The belt on the 4.0 has to be so tight (Robert Torrez has a good description of how tight it has to be but I can't think of it offhand) that the various deflection methods seem to rarely work. Some like to use the Krikit gauge but I have never tried one.

Getting the belt too tight can damage bearings but that shouldn't happen if you use some patience and tighten only until noise stops. You probably know that you may have to retighten a new belt after a few minutes operation.

Since you only have noise when turning on the A/C, your problem is almost certainly a belt that is not tight enough. You can always loosen it a bit if necessary.

Get back if this doesn't seem to make sense.

tacmedic909

It makes perfect sense. I guess I'm being cautious ...apprehensive is a better word I suppose. Thank you for helping. I've tightened a dew times and just taking my time. I don't went to damage my bearings and that's in the back of my mind.

Pelican

Never hurts to be a bit apprehensive...let us know if any problems.