When starting the car and giving it gas, it makes a horrible squeaking noise. Why?

Normal driving does not produce this sound. Could it have anything to do with a starter that is about to die?

 

Tighten your fan belts.

 

That's it? Shouldn't they have done that when they restored it??

 

If they worked on the engine ..yes.. but apperently they din't

 

Belts stretch with use. The rebuilder may have had them tight enough when they were new. Of course they should be "extra" tignt when installed to compensate for the stretch. It only takes about 15 minutes of running to go from new to stretched.

 

I've had it back 3 days, total engine rebuild, they test drove it 30 miles before I got it back.

I've driven it 20 miles myself. Would they be that loose already? IF this is the case, won't I be tightening the belts every time I drive it???

 

No, you just need to tighten them when they squeak. After you tighten them this time, you won't have to for a long time.

 

Yep - the belts are stretched now and shouldn't be a problem.... unless there is something slipping in the bolts that allow adjustment.

 

Sometimes, it is hard to get the alternator belt tight enough. There isn't a good spot to put a pipe or tire rod to lift up with enough pressure. I use my left hand to lift up while tightening the bolts, but that takes 3 or 4 beers and a good country music station going. You can get a belt dressing at most parts places that you can spray on the groove while the engine is running, and it will stop the squeaking.

 

Thanks, it's at the body shop now and I mentioned the squeek and they said they'd take care of it.