Hey guys,


I've searched the forum for this issue and have found some possibilities but just wanted some other opinions if any exist. 2001 F150 4x4 with 71k miles, 4.6 engine. Last winter I noticed a squeal in the morning that would go away when the engine warmed up. This winter it is also happening, but now it is lasting all day. The belt does show some wear and I'm getting ready to replace it with a gatorback, but does anyone think it could be anything else (a pulley)? Also, if it's squealing all day like it is now and it is in fact the belt, how long do you think the belt will last until it goes? Basically, how much time do I have to replace it?

Thanks

 

I would change the belt today because they have a tendency to break when you are in the middle of no where, Also check that the tensioner is not binding or seized. Very common. It is not all that expensive to replace. Make sue all pulleys are free from oil, dirt or any other debris.

 

While there could be many sources of such noise;it may be possible that your radiator fan clutch is starting to wear out.
Most of the time they don't "go" all at once,but gradually. The Bi-Metallic coil clutch begins to wear beyond spec. If you do have a engine driven fan you might want to look out for a replacement.

 

Just a follow-up:

I bought some belt conditioner thinking that if I spray the belt while it's running and it is the belt going bad that is causing the constant squeal, that it should go away temporarily. Well, it doesn't go away at all when I spray the belt, which makes me begin to think that it's something else....the question is what. It's going to be 8 degrees tonight so I doubt I'll get to it this week. I haven't seen any fluids on the ground so I don't think it's the water pump.

 

Any other ideas? I've got a brand new '08 5.4L. I bought in August. Once it started getting cold here, it would squeel untill it warmed up a little, then again as the rpm's picked up as I drove. Still does it, only when it has not been running and is cold. Like I said, it's new. Less than 7800 miles.

 

There is a TSB for this - I just had it done.

Would get the squeal (the TSB calls it a "hoot/whistle") on cold starts below 35 degs - would go away once warmed up.

The TSB called for the replacement of the belt idler pulley - worked like a charm for me - no "hoot" since.

Go to your dealer and get them to do this fix.