Very Noisy Belts ??

[garydh2000]

My 96 Rodeo has what sounds like loud, squealing belts. The belts, all belts, have been replaced within the last six months. I have had the belts adjusted since their replacement but this did not eliminate the noise. I have used belt dressing as well which seems to provide only temporary relief.

My question is: If not the belts, what might be causing this noise?

Thanks, Gary

[Ramblin Fever]

On my '97 - when my belts turn squeaky, it's either because they're worn or loose.

Tighten 'em up a *bit* more. 'Zu's like their belts extra snug!

[garydh2000]

OK...I will try to tighten more. I thought maybe it could be a bad fan clutch or tensioner? Would either of these cause the squealing?

[surferfletch]

Any of the accessories can squeal, but I'll bet it's your belts, too. Just be careful with the tightening....I overdid the power steering pump belt and wound up stranded. Sounded like the engine blew up with the belt bouncing around the engine bay. Knew what it was right away, though, when I tried to turn down a sidestreet.

[Cat Fuzz]

It's probably the alternator belt. For some reason, that one needs to be a little tighter than normal.

[Gizmo42]

I have used belt dressing as well which seems to provide only temporary relief.

I wouldnt use belt dressing anymore. It stops the squeeling by breaking down the rubber and softening it. You are still ok, you will just have to replace the belts a little earlier then normal probably. I'm an HVAC tech (commercial heating and a/c) and we dont even allow the stuff in the shop. If our belts are squeeking we have to either adjust them properly or replace them.

[garydh2000]

I had all three belts replaced last week. The squealing is gone and the Rodeo is running great.

130,000 miles now.

Gary