I just replaced both of my belts (ac & alternator/ p/s) on my 2000 subaru legacy gt. I just took it out for a spin and heard a loud squeeling noise. It was only doing it when i accelerated. Is this normal with new belt? Or could they be too loose or tight?

 

Ben

Loud squeal when you rev it? They're loose.

the car isn't making a squeel anymore...so i dunno what was going on...

 

Ben

I agree. If the belt squeals, particularly a new one, then it is loose. My Nissan 300ZX is notorious for doing the same thing. I end up retightening its belts at least 3 times whenever I replace the belts, before I can eliminate the squeal.

Loose. Even though a little wear has made them quite, I would recommend tightening them a tiny bit.

Dittos on the belts being too loose. Keep in mind though, if you tighten them too much, you may encounter bearing problems later. Don't go overboard.

I have found that a new belt usually needs to be retightened at least once. You need to get it tight enough that is doesn't squeal when it's first installed, then come back in 500 miles or so and check it.

Thanks everyone for the advice, the same thing just happened to me after installing a new alternator in the RX. I will tighten it up.

 

On the bright side, the car fired right up first time after charging the battery, cleaning all battery and alternator contacts and replacing the alternator!