Screaching Noise

[lukevinyl]

This is probably a stupid question. When I first start the car up, (usually only when it is cold) there is that awful screaching sound that comes on only for a moment or two until I rev the engine, or start moving. Help, I hear this a lot in other cars, but want to know if I need to use belt grease or what?


Thanks

[carolinus]

Belt grease? The screeching is because your belts are not getting enough friction, so they slip on the pully going screeeeech!!!!. Usually tightening/replacing them will help. It can also mean that one of your belt train components has started to break down and go high friction. That can be tested with an infrared thermometer usually. If it is really hot and/or doesn't spin right, that's the trouble.

[todwic]

Agreed. Tighten the belt. If squeeling doesn't stop, replace the belt, and tighten it just short of banjo string taunt. The squeek, as corny said, is your pulley spinning inside of the belt, and it will leave you stranded if you don't do the right thing.

[divezic]

Check the belt first and unless it is obviously loose (not tight at all), change it. You may remove a squeal from an old belt by tightening it but you may be tightening it beyond the specs and ruin your PS pump or AC compressor, or the belt may end up breaking.

$20 and 30 min to put on two new belts is cheap insurance.

[todwic]

Sage advice, Divez

[carolinus]

Sometimes we forget the little tips such as don't overtighten, and put oil back in your engine after your are done...don't ask.

[lukevinyl]

Thanks-- the belts themselves are fairly new and look good. They are quite loose though. Will do.

[lukevinyl]

Thanks-- the belts themselves are fairly new and look good. They are quite loose though. Will do.

[binky]

My 1987 944 NA also does it, my mechanic thinks it might be the starter. It is very embarrassing when you are parked near $100K show cars, crank it up and hear that SCREECH!!!
Happy holidays...