Ever since I got the alternator belts changed, I have a horrible, completely imbarrassing squealing noise especially when it's cold, wet, when I start it up, slowing down and sometimes turning corners. Putting belt spray helps but doesn't last. Tightening it doesn't seem to work.... What else can it be? Is it serious and how do I get it to stop?

Please help.

 

You might have the wrong size belt on or you need to tighten the belt.

 

Tightening the alternator is tricky because access to the traveling bolt lock nut below the alternator. Here are the steps:

1) Loosen alternator hinge nut (easy access w/ 12mm socket and ratchet).

2) Loosen alternator traveling bolt lock nut under the alternator. Very difficult to access w/ ratchet+12mm socket or 12mm open/closed end combination. I use an offset closed end wrench to reach and loosen the nut ~ 1-2 turns. It is also possible to access w/ 1/4" ratchet, 1/4x3/8" adapter, and 3/8"-12mm socket. This combination will reach the nut and allow engagement.

3) Use a ratchet, 12mm socket and extensions to reach the adjustment bolt beneath the alternator. It helps greatly if you have some wobbly sockets to allow "curved access", but I think you can make work w/ straight extensions. This bolt moves the alternator around the hinge bolt to change alternator position.

good luck

 

Thanks guys! i'll let someone else do it for me this time.