[barkles]

I replaced both idler and tension pulleys this morning and the noise persists. Started the car without the belt and it was quiet, so I know it's something that's running on the belt. A/C? Alternator?

Do you have to replace the whole alternator or A/C units? Can I just replace the pulleys on those?

[barkles]

Here's what the alternator sounds like with the belt off...

[redvitesse]

I saw you posted video and a question on a possible bad alternator or power steering pump pulley after replacing belt and other pulleys in December. Did u ever figure this out. Have the same issue on mine right now. Any help is appreciated. Thanks, g

Don't know about the AC but the alternator you can replace the pulley separate.

[redvitesse]

Originally Posted by index1489

Don't know about the AC but the alternator you can replace the pulley separate.

Replaced both idler and tensioner pulleys along the belt. The idler was definitely going bad (grease under dust cap) but tensioner was fine. Used the breaker bar as a stethoscope and noise is still near the alternator near as I can tell. Interestingly the 3 bolts on the power steering pulley were very loose, pulley on the power steering pump showed no damage. Any pulley going bad at 40k is terrible to say the least. Hopefully Barkles (original poster) will respond as mine is making exact same noise. If not I will see about going on to the alternator pulley. Thanks for the post response

[barkles]

Hey guys... it ended up being the clutch bearing on the alternator. It was so bad that it took the alternator shaft bearing with it. Ordered 4 new Al bolts and a reman alternator from rockauto for like $260.