Underhood squeal

[ledhedsymbols]

OK... A few days ago it was a rare sunny day in Seattle, so I decided to dust off the 968 for the trip into work. It fired right up as usual, but there was an RPM variable squeal coming from under the hood. I shut it down, and as I needed to take off, I switched cars and away I went. I've been thinking about it for a couple days, and had the time to take a look today. I thought the first thing I would try was tightening the accessory belt, and the P/S belt, as they felt a bit loose. I did, and it had no effect. My next thought was a bearing on its way out, so I pulled the two belts off and fired it up again. The squeal didn't go away. I was thinking maybe something was wrong with the balance belt, or god forbid, the timing belt. It's about due BTW, and I had just visited my favorite indy Porsche shop to get an estimate.
I live in a condo, so the work I can do here is limited. I also will not travel with it until I at least suss out what's going on here. Does anyone have any thoughts about what my issue could be? I appreciate the help, and I'll keep everyone posted if I figure it out for myself.

Micah

[SoCal Driver]

Several rotating items under the front belt cover. You should be able to pull off the top section with out too much trouble and watch as someone fires up the car. Could be the water pump to just one of the smooth damper rollers. I would be very careful as a broken timing belt will cost you big bucks on the 968.

[mscromer]

Thats my guess also, one of the many rollers for the timing belt and the balance belt is on its way out. You will be able to spin the two idler rollers to see if you can hear if it is coming from them, but for the other rollers, you will have to remove the belts. And if you have to do that you might as well replace all the rollers and maybe the water pump that way you dont have to worry about it for a long time.

[ledhedsymbols]

That's what I'm thinking... I'm off to do some research and see what parts I need. I'm sure someone here or on the 968 forum has posted a list. What would the recommendation be from you folks for the belt tension? Is there a particular tensioner that is recommended, or the
?P9201? or is it necessary on the 968? I'm sure the job itself can't be that hard, they are just belts after all. I'm sure I'll be back with more questions.

Thanks Again,
Micah

[ledhedsymbols]

I did the math, and it looks to be about even money to buy parts and tools versus having done by a reputable shop. I ordered the flywheel lock and P9201 from MaxRPM in Bremerton WA. This should be an interesting experience.

Micah