Squeaky when cold - water pump? Idler?

[Tim Shoppa]

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.

 

[Dana Rohleder]

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

 

[Lane]

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 ]

 

[brane_ded]

Agree on idler pulley.
About $20 at the dealer.