I've read through all the posts that use the word "squeal" in hopes of solving the squeal problem on my son's 2001 Gen 4 Sable with the 3.0L Vulcan engine, but I still need some advice. Here's a summary of what I've done:
--The squeal is definitely coming from the belt area of the engine. There is no sound in the CPS area.
--Took the car to two mechanics who used stethoscopes, and they collectively recommended changing the idler and tensioner pulleys, and alternator.
--First I replaced the serpentine belt. No help.
--Next I replaced the idler pulley. No help.
--Next I replaced the belt tensioner pulley. No help.
--Next I replaced the alternator (the old one on there had a lifetime warranty from Pep Boys). No help.
From all the "squeal" posts I read here, one person eliminated it by changing the water pump. Another by replacing the belt tensioner spring assembly itself, another by changing the power steering pump, and another had a bad AC compressor pulley.
What should I do now? The water pump is not leaking or seeping, the A/C and power steering work great, and the belt tensioner holds the belt in place well. Any suggestions on the next thing to try in the process of elimination, or how to diagnose the exact cause? Of the remaining choices, replacing the tensioner spring would be easiest. Thanks for your help.
--The squeal is definitely coming from the belt area of the engine. There is no sound in the CPS area.
--Took the car to two mechanics who used stethoscopes, and they collectively recommended changing the idler and tensioner pulleys, and alternator.
--First I replaced the serpentine belt. No help.
--Next I replaced the idler pulley. No help.
--Next I replaced the belt tensioner pulley. No help.
--Next I replaced the alternator (the old one on there had a lifetime warranty from Pep Boys). No help.
From all the "squeal" posts I read here, one person eliminated it by changing the water pump. Another by replacing the belt tensioner spring assembly itself, another by changing the power steering pump, and another had a bad AC compressor pulley.
What should I do now? The water pump is not leaking or seeping, the A/C and power steering work great, and the belt tensioner holds the belt in place well. Any suggestions on the next thing to try in the process of elimination, or how to diagnose the exact cause? Of the remaining choices, replacing the tensioner spring would be easiest. Thanks for your help.