QuestionQUESTION: When I start up my car, I hear a squeaking noise, especially if the air conditioner is on. I think maybe a belt needs to be replaced. If I turn off my a/c, the squeaking usually stops. My husband doesn't know if he can fix it or not, I'm not sure which belt it is and I don't know by looking. Any help is appreciate.
ANSWER: Hi Elly -
You are absolutely correct. The A/C belt needs tightening or replacing. If it has been more than a year since your belts were replaced, I would just go ahead and do that.
I don;t know what size engine you have, so I will tell you how to find the A/C belt. With the A/C off, start the engine. Then have someone turn the A/C on and off. Look for the component that spins on and off with the switch and you have found the A/C. It is usually the largest component driven by the belts. There is usually an idler pulley that you can adjust to tighten the belt. All it takes is a couple wrenches and maybe a socket and ratchet. Should be all 14mm.
Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks Calvin. Not sure about the engine size, but it is a V-6 3000. I tried your suggestion and my husband thinks he has identified the belt, but it is not loose. He cannot get to it to take it off and replace it....from where he thinks it is anyhow. Guess it has to be jacked up?
AnswerHi Elly -
Try tightening it anyway. A lot of times it may seem tight, but under load it slips. Usually there is an idler pulley that you can tighten to adjust the belt. Should be near the A/C com pressor. One bolt in the middle to loosen, and another on the side to adjust. Clockwise makes it tighter.
Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin
