Loud squeling noise and burning smell

[240SX_89]

There is a squealing noise coming from the engine. When I first start it up there is no noise but as soon as I give it gas I can hear it. It gets loud and then it stops for like a second. I also noticed that there is a burning smell like rubber coming from the driver side of the engine. I figured it could be the belt but I had that replaced a while back. It is a 2000 Mountaineer 5.0 V8
Thanks in advance.

[shorod]

That certainly sounds like a belt, but the belt is probably not the cause of the squealing. Rather, there is a pulley or belt-driven device that is resisting rotation, which causes the belt to slip, emitting the squeal and burning rubber smell.

Does it only do this if the A/C or defroster is on? If not, pull the belt (which will need to be replaced anyway) and spin all the pulleys. See if any of the accessory pulleys feel rough when spinning or are very hard to turn. The power steering pulley will likely be hard to turn, so if more than just the power steering pulley is difficult, I wouldn't worry yet about the power steering pump being the cause.

-Rod

[240SX_89]

It doesnt do it when ac or defrost is on. It does it right when it starts up. Ill have to check the pulleys. Thanks for the help

[240SX_89]

Well its the AC but for some reason it doesnt spinn unless the AC is on. Do you now how much it would cost to replace the AC Comprosser and could I do it myself or should I take it to the mechanic?

[shorod]

I'd suggest you take it to a professional. The A/C system can get expensive in a hurry, not to mention needing specialized equipment and knowledge to repair and recharge the A/C system. Paying a professional to do it right once now could end up saving you a bunch in the long run.

-Rod

[Retired Jim]

Check your tensioner pulley and the idle pulley.