sqeeking sound from engine

[teamlorenz]

I got this sqeeking sound (can't seem to spell sqeeking) coming from the front engine area. can't tell the differance from right or left side. it does almost go away when engine warms up. i guess it could be alt, vacum pump, belt tensoner. are there any common noise makers before i go and start replacing stuff?
thanks
Chris
1990 SE

[deecee]

Check you Belt Tensioner....Immediately!

The sound could mean that the bearing is ready to go which could easily result in...as Einstein would have described it...the Pistons and Valves wanting to occupy the same Space at the same Time...

[jolley]

Mouse

>> Edited by jolley on Thursday 14th April 03:52

[Esprit2]

deecee said:

Check you Belt Tensioner....Immediately!

Or the water pump and alternator bearings. Those bearings and the timing belt tensioner bearing can all squeak as they fail. The alternator bearing is just inconvenient. The water pump bearing is just inconvenient unless you fail to observe the temp gauge. A tensioner bearing will most likely be very expensive. If it fails it will take out the timing belt. That, in turn, can take out all the valves... or more.

Priorities. But Deecee is correct to advise checking the tensioner bearing immediately.

Good luck,
Tim Engel
Lotus Owners Oftha North

[chandrab]

How does one check the belt tensioner? What am I looking for?

Thanks,
Chandra