Squeaky when cold - water pump? Idler?

Discussion in 'General Motoring' started by Tim Shoppa, Jan 16, 2004.

  1. Tim Shoppa

    Tim Shoppa Guest

    My wife's 92 SL1 makes a squeaky/squealy noise when it's cold (meaning, less
    than 20F) and the engine is above 2500 RPM or so. The noise goes away
    a couple minutes later when it starts to warm up. It's there whether
    the car is in park or drive.

    The noise is similar to the classic "power steering at its limit" noise,
    but doesn't depend on the power steering position, and it's not as loud.
    I suspect that it might be the belt idler pully or the water pump, both
    of which are original on this car. Anyone have advice on which to fix
    first, or should I just wait until it gets worse? Or is it realistically
    time to replace both anyway, just to be safe?

    Tim.
     
    Tim Shoppa, Jan 16, 2004
    #1
  2. If it goes away when it warms up I wouldn't worry much. You may want to try
    some belt dressing or tightening the belt - it is likely old & dry.

    Dana
     
    Dana Rohleder, Jan 16, 2004
    #2
  3. Tim Shoppa

    Lane Guest

    There was a TSB for this in early S-Series cars and I had this occur on my
    94 SC2. It was the idler pulley. Before replacing that though, make sure
    your belt is in good shape and your tensioner is doing its job.

    Lane [ l a n e @ p a i r . c o m ]
     
    Lane, Jan 17, 2004
    #3
  4. Tim Shoppa

    brane_ded Guest

    Agree on idler pulley.
    About $20 at the dealer.
     
    brane_ded, Jan 17, 2004
    #4
Ask a Question

Want to reply to this thread or ask your own question?

You'll need to choose a username for the site, which only take a couple of moments (here). After that, you can post your question and our members will help you out.