Engine noise

3.1 V6 sedan. I have a kind of high-ish howling noise (not squealing) coming from something powered by the sepentine belt. It happens on and off at around 2000rpm. My best guess is it's in the area of the power steering pump or the water pump. It seems to be something at the front, but I wondered if anyone had any troubleshooting tips for finding which component it is. Where do I start? Is there something common that fails in that area at around 120k miles?

Thanks in advance

Jim

Easiest just to take the belt off, spin everything and feel for rumble or run-out. The tensioner itself could be going bad, too.

Alternately, you can use a heavy wood dowel or pole, held against the different parts and to your ear, to isolate which one the sound comes from.

Thanks for your suggestions. I'll try a few things and let you know the outcome.