Random squeaking belt, no apparent cause?

[goheels681]

As soon as I fix one problem, the next one starts..

I replaced the IAC Valve on my Explorer a few days ago, and from then on until now (about 3 days) I've had a very erratic squeaking belt. There doesn't seem to be ANY correlation between the squeak and the conditions the car is under. It isn't any worse or better depending on how dry or damp it is, it isn't associated with acceleration or the A/C, it happens while idling and while driving. There are no apparent problems with the car- it doesn't drive poorly at all (in fact, after the IAC replacement it seems to run better than ever!)

The squeak is very short, and only lasts for a few seconds at a time (It almost sounds like a bunch of demonic birds chirping away..). There may be a few seconds in between "squeaking sessions," or a few minutes. It does seem to get a little better as the car itself warms up, but if you listen closely you can definitely still hear it.

I saw this thread, but it doesn't help me much when the Youtube video was taken off..

I'll try to get a video of it tomorrow. Anyone know where to look for this problem?

(Specs: 2000 XLT 4x4, 5spd Auto, 4.0L OHV)

 

[renegadepig]

I would remove the belt and check the tensioner or one of the driven items as the source of the noise

 

[Firestorm]

I've seen several posts before where the IAC valve actually makes the noise that you're speaking of. When it starts making said noise again, try unplugging your connection to the IAC, and see if it stops.

 

[goheels681]

I've seen several posts before where the IAC valve actually makes the noise that you're speaking of. When it starts making said noise again, try unplugging your connection to the IAC, and see if it stops.

That would make a lot of sense and save me money and a headache. How do you suggest testing it? When I went to work this morning it was louder than ever, but while at work I unplugged the IAC, started the car (stalled immediately, of course), plugged it back in and no noise since. Is there a more definitive test than this?

 

[Turdle]

Follow my instructions in the thread you linked. The video only showed a guy spinning a removed sensor by hand making it squeak, and wasn't really of any help to you. It was just proof.

The cam sensor on your engine is way back to the rear of the black deck. You may need to pull the upper plennum to change it.

 

[my98nnj]

I had a belt squeek that drove me nuts for a while too. Belt was less then 2 years old so I figured it couldn't be the issue. I replaced the idler pully, still squeeked. I sprayed some belt dressing, only to have the squeek come back. Finally gave in a replaced the belt - Problem Solved! Should have gone that route in the first place.

My .02

 

[Firestorm]

I can't recall, you'd just have to do a search here on the forums for IAC.

I believe it has something to do with the diaphragm, but I do remember that they would disconnect it, and the noise went away.