On Tue, 29 Nov 2005 15:22:54 GMT, "Burt S." <burtsquareman@gmailcom>
wrote:

>"Elle" <honda.lioness@earthlink.net> wrote in message news:vjOif.6925$wf.5550@newsread3.news.atl.earthli nk.net...
>
>> Yes, this is exactly the description of a loose alternator
>> belt: Squeals on first startup, then quiets down.
>>
>> If you're handy and have a set of metric wrenches and
>> sockets, it shouldn't be hard to tighten it up yourself.
>
>The radial load from pulling the side of the output shaft that
>exceeds the factory spec by a tight belt will cause premature
>wear of output shaft bearings. Instead use a grip compound
>or replace the worn belt.
>
>Here's a rule of thumb: Push down on the belt halfway
>between pulleys with a force of about 24 lbs. The belt
>should deflect 12-17mm.
>
>
>
>
A very good point. If you have AC and your alternator belt is common
to the AC compressor and it was reinstalled tighter than when you
brought it in, it could be the compressor clutch that is making the
high pitched squeal from the excessive side load. This happened on my
'90. belt never was slipping.

Frank