Picked up a 96 XJ with a 4.0. Guy I bought it from said this squeaky noise was coming from the compressor. The condenser has a hole in it, so I replaced the compressor with bypass. However, the noise is still there. Any ideas what it is?

 

 

I'd agree, except it sounds like it is coming from outside the engine, not inside

 

Check the water pump

 

I did some more digging. It's definitely coming from down low, near where the engine/trans meet up. However, using a screwdriver to try to pinpoint the sound I can't find the source. Can't hear it through the pan, or the bellhousing, or the trans oil pan.

 

Got another video. Crank bearing?

 

 

Yeah I pulled the belt to make sure it wasn't anything up front. Still made the noise.

 

Almost sounds like a rod bearing or thrust bearing. Have you stethoscoped the block or the head? I had a motor mount come loose from the block one time and it sounded similar. But this motor mount sound went away under throttle and engine twist until the pressure was backed off again.

 

Figured I'd update this. Problem was a cracked flex plate.