Hey all,

Just a question about the belts under the hood of the protege (1.8L).

I know it's pretty common for these to squeek a little when it's cold. But, Mine seem to be making a pretty high pitched squeel sound, until the engine is at normal operating tempature.

Any ideas/thoughts what it could be causing this? ideas to fix it?

Thanks!,

 

There is a pretty long thread on this topic somewhere here.
Important points are:
Proper belt tension.
Use top quality belts.
Check for a polished look on the alternator pulley. If it has a smooth glossy look use sand paper on the flanks of the grooves to proide a bit of friction for the belt.

And here is a 'Don't": don't use belt dressing.

Good luck!

 

Sorry all for the delayed reply.

Turns out it was a bad mounting bracket that was causing the alternator to move/wobble, hence the squealing. That's been fixed, but the battery light is staying on in the car. Could the entire alternator unit be bad?

Can anyone suggest places that might do a free load test of the unit?

Thanks!,

Dan

 

It could be. I don't know where you are located, but Autozone will test it. I have a voltmeter so any electrical issues I can (usually) resolve.

 

YES it could be damaged due to not running true, putting strain on bearings, etc