irtemed

Thank you to all who posted replies. I really appreciate this forum and your time.

I recently got a used 2000 OBW (95k miles). no manual on board. can anyone tell me what the recommended motor oil viscosity grade is? I'm in Wash, DC (HOT summer). I'm guessing 10w40 in the summer and 5w30 in winter, but would appreciate knowing the manual's recommended grade. thanks.

My 2000 Outback wagon (auto) 95K makes a nasty squeal when starting up cold. I recently had the belts replaced, and went back a week later to get the belts tightened due to a squealing when idling at stop signs. I wonder if the mechanic over-tightened and now I have a bearing dying? I can move the belt about 1/2-3/4 inch when pressing on it with moderate force- does that sound correct? with a lot of force I can move it at least an inch. Should I tighten it more? Someone said you can take the belt off and try rotating the PS pump pulley to see if it feels rough. To get the belt off do I just loosen it way down using the nut that's on the long bolt that controls the rotation of the thing that looks like it might be the alternator ? Do you have to re-align anything when you put the belt back on? thanks in advance for any help.