Shrill Noise When Damp

[owf107]

I have a 2001 2.3 zetec Galaxy that has covered 90k miles. When the car is started up after standing over night in damp condition the engine produces a shrill noise. The noise stops after a few minutes driving. I suspect (having searched the forums) that this is the aux belt tensioner. However I am unsure if this requires replacement or whether this can be adjusted. If it does require replacement how much should I expect to pay my local garage.

[Richard gal]

I have a 2001 2.3 zetec Galaxy that has covered 90k miles. When the car is started up after standing over night in damp condition the engine produces a shrill noise. The noise stops after a few minutes driving. I suspect (having searched the forums) that this is the aux belt tensioner. However I am unsure if this requires replacement or whether this can be adjusted. If it does require replacement how much should I expect to pay my local garage.

 

May need a new belt if its original.

[dbc]

Think the tensioner is spring loaded so auto adjusts. They do stick over time. Remove tensioner and give it a good clean + lube making sure it operates OK. Might as well replace the belt if you go to the effor of taking tensioner off.

 

New tensnioner is expensive (

[Pud]

I had exactly the same problem on my 2000 Mk2 2.3

 

Ended up replacing the complete tensioner, no more squealing when it was cold.

[marcostig]

They all do it dont bother about it...save your money ok in spring /summer..

[seatkid]

Have you got a tired/failing battery? Could be due to heavy loading from alternator topping up a nearly empty battery.

 

Check the intenal ribbing on the belt, if its all cracked with missing bits of ribbing then its time to change the belt.

 

Check the above before changing the tensioner.