1st Gen R50 Cooper Brand new Serpentine Belt squeal when cold

Discussion in '1st Generation: 2002–06 R50, R53 & 2004–08 R52' started by Different Computers, May 20, 2014.

  1. Different Computers

    Different Computers New Member

    Apr 7, 2014
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    Mac Guy
    Troy, VA
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    One of the maintenance issues necessary when I bought Black Top used ('03 R50 91K miles) was a serpentine belt replacement. It also needed a new belt tensioner.

    After that replacement, when I start the car cold (not air temp, cold as in cold engine) I get a belt squealing noise for a few moments, apparently until the belt warms up. I have a suspicion this is also related to damp weather, but I'm not sure.

    Anyone else experience this? Should I care? Should I take it back to the place that did it to have them check the tension?
     
  2. Dave.0

    Dave.0 Helix & RMW Powered
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    May 4, 2009
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    I have has that happen from time to time when it really cold but then again my car lives in a garage.

    It could also be your idler pulley loose if it still the original one. (cheap fix)
     
  3. Different Computers

    Different Computers New Member

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    Mac Guy
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    Thanks! The odd thing is there wasn't any squeal from the old belt. But then, almost the first thing I did was get the belt changed.
     
  4. Dave.0

    Dave.0 Helix & RMW Powered
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    Who is the maker of the belt? I use Gates belts.
     
  5. ScottinBend

    ScottinBend Space Cowboy
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    May 4, 2009
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    ....and make sure it was put on the right side out. Done that....:mad:
     
  6. Crashton

    Crashton Club Coordinator

    Jun 4, 2009
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    Retired old fart
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    At your mileage I'd change out the idler for sure. Also have a good look at the crank damper pulley. Not sure if a failing pulley would cause that noise. It is odd you went from no noise to noise with a tensioner & belt change.

    I used to get that once in a great while, but since all all those parts were replaced on mine the sound has been absent.
     
  7. Different Computers

    Different Computers New Member

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    Mac Guy
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  8. Dave.0

    Dave.0 Helix & RMW Powered
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    Did you oil the belt? JUST KIDDING.....good luck
     

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