jd896

Hi all,

I've tried searching answers for this, but I find a lot of mixed responses or the thread deteriorates into a clump of other users asking about their own cars. Anyway, for the last year or so, I've had a gnarly belt squeal when it rains. My car is the 2001 3.8L V6 convertible. Typical symptoms also include lights dimming and windshield wipers slowing when the squeal becomes audible. When I punch the throttle to drive the RPMs up, the squeal will usually go away and the electronics resume their normal functions. Depending on how hard it rains, it could come back after letting off the gas immediately or after a few moments.

All I've personally done so far is replace the idler pulley next to the alternator, since the casing had some hairline fractures. I also broke a belt about two years ago and had the tensioner replaced. I'm not really sure what to attack next (full alternator replacement??), so any help would be massively appreciated, thanks!

GT Nate

how old is the belt on there now?

jd896

About two years, didn't replace since I broke it. Sorry if that wasn't clear!

Urambo Tauro

You're probably right to suspect the alternator. Take the belt off and see how freely that pulley spins.

NYstang

Have the alternator tested. A multimeter is pretty cheap if you want to check at home too.

Also inspect the belt- it may still be worn down, even after 2 years.