"Chirping" - Belt or pulley?

[khigh]

I started getting an occasional "chirp" when it was cold or wet, now it pretty much chirps randomly whenever idling.

I'm thinking a bearing problem would be more of a squeal than a chirp. But the belt is newish - less than a year.

I can't really track it down when I'm looking at it. maybe I need to use some sort of microphone to see where it's loudest?

Any specific things to look for first?

Thanks for looking.

 

[SRTH8R]

Is it the clutch on the a/c compressor by chance. I know they cycle quite often.

 

[OR VietVet]

Kevin, you should know by now to at least put the year and engine in your post. The make and model helps even more. C'mon man!

That being said, the problem you complain about has long been around. Can be numerous things. Best to buy a mechanic's stethoscope and learn how to use it to pinpoint noises. Inexpensive and very useful tool.

Likely the dreaded serpentine belt and both tensioners and the 1 idler causing noise. I used Goodyear Gator back belts and used AC Delco tensioners and AC Delco idler. All through Rock Auto. You will need to know the amp output of your alternator. I had the same problem and fixed all by replacing those parts. I have been told that other belts like good quality AC Delco, Gates and Dayco can work, also. Don't make the mistake of buying the lesser grade belts.

 

[khigh]

I didn't think about being year specific, but it's a 2000 Z71 5.7

I'm kind of rooting for it being the belt, actually, because the shop that put it in would be on the hook for that. Whatever it is it came from NAPA.

I know the alternator is 140 amp.

Unless it's the free-spinning clutch, it's not the AC in February.

 

[OR VietVet]

I didn't think about being year specific, but it's a 2000 Z71 5.7

I'm kind of rooting for it being the belt, actually, because the shop that put it in would be on the hook for that. Whatever it is it came from NAPA.

I know the alternator is 140 amp.

Unless it's the free-spinning clutch, it's not the AC in February.

It is not going to be just a belt. If it is at all related to what I said it will be the tensioners and the idler and the belts. How many belts do you have?

 

[2000tahoeZ71]

Had the same problem with my 2000 5.7. When it had rained, or was otherwise damp outside, mine would chirp and squeal under throttle. Belt was a little over a year old. Replaced the belt and it went away. I only use gates micro v belts and have had good luck. I think the smooth side gets good and worn and water makes it slip on the water pump pulley.