Mysterious Chirping Sound

RonZwanson

Hey everyone,

Over the last few weeks, I've noticed a sound when I'm driving, and I can't figure out what's causing it, so I'm soliciting opinions.

When I'm driving, typically 45mph +, I get a slight, but definitely noticeable, chirping sound coming from the passenger side of the engine bay.

The first thing I did was check the belt. My car has about 71k on it, so I figured the belt needs to go (which it probably does soon). However, when I checked it out, the belt seems to be in pretty good shape, actually. I'm the second owner, so who knows, maybe it was replaced before. And since it's more of a chirp than any sort of squeal, I'm thinking it may not be the belt anyway.

I've also let the car idle and opened the hood, trying to locate the sound. Nothing seems to happen AT ALL when the car is just idling, which is frustrating. It seems to only make the sound when I have the car in gear, driving at a decent speed. It doesn't seem to change with acceleration, it's pretty consistent along the rev range or throttle position.

It also doesn't seem to make a difference if I turn the fan (A/C) on. No change there.

Could this be a pulley? Has anyone had a similar issue? Anyone know what I should stare at in the engine bay while I pretend I have a clue how to fix it?


Side note: Anyone know of a DIY post for changing the belt? I've looked around on here and haven't found one. I did find a half-decent one over on a 350 forum.

Thanks.

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Trips

I can't help on the chirp sound But you might want to record it.

As in the belt replacement? Here is how the belt is routed.

You'll have to use a large 1/2'' ratchet to loosen the belt tensioner item 5 If I remember correctly.

Someone can chime in if Im missing something.

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Q8y_drifter

I'm having the exact same issue. Same location, same sound, same speeds. To me it appears to be coming from the area between the engine and firewall rather than the front of the engine. It's kinda like a slight (metal?) rubbing noise.

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DOOMMONKEY777

Check for loose heat shields or loose hoses and items like that under the car, bolts missing, plastic ripped, metal bend, metal rusted and hanging. Gl

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RonZwanson

I guess I'll have to poke around next time I have an oil change. It's usually good to just ignore questionable noises and hope they disappear. My inspection is due relatively soon too, so maybe I'll have them check it out.

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SouthArk370Z

Idler pulley?

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Fountainhead

It's a good idea to look at the tick marks on the idle pulley to see if the pointer is past the middle, that indicates belt stretch/wear. Doesn't sound like it's a idle pulley/belt because those go noisy and don't get better.