howling/screaching sound on start-up - '96 626

Hello,

I just recently had the alternator and belt changed in my 1996 626 and since then, the car screaches on start-up. It is not everytime, it is pretty random and sporadic. Some times, it doesn't screach and other times, it goes on for about 15-30 seconds.

I read something on the forum to lubricate the pulleys but they are hard to reach to lubricate. Initially, I though the mechanic accidently put grease on the belt and it would clear up but it didn't.

It's a high pitch screach that lasts anywhere from 5 seconds to about 45 seconds (approximately). Once the screaching stops, the car seems to slightly pick up in revs/power.

The alternator is a rebuilt purchased from canadian tire (i live in canada). I doubt that this would make a difference or not but i'm adding all the information I can think of.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Pat

It sounds like a belt is loose, possibly the alternator belt. I would have it re-adjusted. The squealing is caused by the belt slipping in the pulley.

Thanks for you help. I will have that looked at.

Thanks,

Pat

i have the same problem on my 98 626.... its screaches too...it just started it about a mth ago.... thats what i thought it was.... is there a way u can tighten it up urself?

If the belt is still in good condition, it is easy to adjust. All you have to do is loosen the adjustment points to move the alternator out a bit. All you need is simple metric hand tools.

quote:

ORIGINAL: 98mazda626gurl

i have the same problem on my 98 626.... its screaches too...it just started it about a mth ago.... thats what i thought it was.... is there a way u can tighten it up urself?

I was able to tighten the belt on mine and it worked like a charm. The only thing is you want to adjust it is small increments as overtightening the belt can cause problems.

I have added a picture in this post. I am not sure if it's different for the '98 but it's accurate for my '96.

Blue arrow is the adjuster lock bolt. (passenger side of alternator)
Red arrow is the adjuster bolt. (between alternator and firewall)
Green arrow is the pivot bolt. (driver's side of alternator)

All you need to do is loosen the adjuster lock bolt (counter clockwise) and then tighten the adjuster bolt (clockwise). Once adjusted, tighten the adjuster lock bolt (clockwise). My '96 used a 12MM socket for both bolts. I would suggest using a shallow socket as there isn't much room to play with in there. It will be a tight fit to loosen and tighten the bolts.

I hope this helps.

Digweed


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thanks... thats should help me a lot!!!!