PDA

View Full Version : Whine from Pulley/Tensioner/Alternator?!


peterbg16
03-17-2010, 12:21 PM
I got a whine/chirping coming from the pulley area of my engine bay. I have NO idea how to check what is causing it tho.
Any ideas? I'm pretty sure its coming from around the alternator. Either the pulley above it or below it but I can't narrow it down. Any way to do that? I sprayed WD40 on the pulley directly above the alternator, as well as the one connected to the alternator, and there was no chance in the noise. The belts look pretty solid.

I read like 5-6 threads about such sounds but most of them had no final decision on what it was, so I figured id check with you guys before I got get it looked at and pay $100...
resharp001
03-17-2010, 01:48 PM
I'd suggest getting an automotive stethescope for $10. You should be able to get one at your local parts store. It will help narrow down where it's coming from. If you're not sure what one looks like do a quick search on amazon or just do a google search. They're well worth $10 to have one around. Have you done any work recently or did this just start out of nowhere?
brcklayr9
03-17-2010, 09:10 PM
I would take the belt right off and check each pulley for any excess play. If either one has any sign of movement, thats the one to replace. It would not hurt to just replace both. The idler pulley is about $25 and the tensioner pulley is about $60.
GuatoPr1de
03-17-2010, 11:50 PM
Id suggest replacing both if you can. I had that same whining and put it off for a while and one day driving home my idler pulley completely broke. Replaced belt, pulley, and tensioner for around 100 bucks and now have that peace of mind, unless you replaced them recently, then it might be something else.
keikun
03-17-2010, 11:56 PM
Id suggest replacing both if you can. I had that same whining and put it off for a while and one day driving home my idler pulley completely broke. Replaced belt, pulley, and tensioner for around 100 bucks and now have that peace of mind, unless you replaced them recently, then it might be something else.

That's exactly what happened to me 2 months ago on my E36 M3! Replace it before you get stranded in the middle of nowhere.