QuestionI have a '96 Impala SS. I have had my water pump replaced with a new one becuase I began to hear a howling noise near the waterpump. After replacing the waterpump this noise continues and nothing is wrong with the belt, pulleys, or belt tensioner. My mechanic said that it must be the water pump shaft is loose or the bearings are going bad on this also. Could this be the problem?
AnswerI will never contradict another mechanic.
Yes, it could be bad.
One thing to do to locate the noise.
Get a long screwdriver and place your thumb over the end of the handle end. Place the other end on a non moving part such as a nut that is not turning on the front of the tensioner pulley. Place the knuckle of your thumb to your ear and you will find the most likely cause of the noise.
I will caution you to think safety while doing this.
No necklaces, neckties or rings. Keep the screwdriver in a solid location without contacting moving parts.
Another way is to remove the belt and check for worn idler arm / tensioner pulley.
Another way is to look for metal shavings or rust-looking material.
But, most likely the howling noise is from one of two things.
Power steering pump or the tensioner pulley.
