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Small, quiet squeak from fan/drive belt
First, let me underscore the fact that this isn't a shrill, ear-splitting squeal from the engine. It's pretty quiet, and barely noticeable. If you stand in front of the grille, you can somewhat hear it. The vehicle is a 2005 Dodge Ram SLT with a 5.7 Hemi V8. I've looked at the belt, and it appears pretty decent. The tension seems good, it's not really loose. Unfortunately, the tensioner is an automatic spring mechanism, so I really can't manually tighten it. I don't want to replace the belt and the pulleys. I just want to stop the small squeak.
I've heard several different options. I should NOT use any type of oil or lubricant, is it will either eat the rubber away, or reduce the friction (power) of the belt. I've heard putting brake fluid on helps (is that a lubricant?). I've heard belt dressing spray really works. I've heard rubbing a bar of soap helps (makes it waxy?). I've also heard blaring rock-and-roll really blocks out any squeaks too (someone being a smart-ash). I've heard toothpaste works, but it has to be Col-gate...
I'm wondering if maybe turtle wax would help? Also, I understand that when replacing the belt, you're supposed to at least clean the pulleys with a wire brush, and thus remove any glaze on them to increase friction and stop squeaks. Without removing the belt, can I effectively clean the exposed parts of the pulleys with a wire brush?
I would really love any help or advice. Thank you.
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