Alternator squeak?

[AdamGardner]

Hi everybody!
(....Hi Dr. Nick!)

I've got a pretty vague question... Not sure if i'll get a resolution.
On my ecotec V6, the alternator or one of the belts seems to have developed a squeak. The higher the revs the faster the squeak etc. Just wondering if this has happened to anyone else or is a common problem - and possibly an easy fix?
Car is due for a service shortly and as far as im aware its not doing any damage... Just a painful experience - only way to get rid of it is turn the music up

Thanks homies!

[F l a k]

If the belt is shiny and/or has little tiny cracks around the edges it's due to be replaced. Do a diagram of your belt then pull it off and spin the alternator and all the idler pulleys one at a time. If they are anything other than smooth, free, and silent then they need to be replaced. A worn belt and screwed pulleys can cause a squeaking sound.

[Tim Smtih]

As above, i needed to replace the bearings on two (idler pulleys) and the third entirely. Now no more squeak.

[cander24]

As above, likely a bearing or belt. My guess is a bearing though. To check them, have the motor idling and get hold of a long flat bladed screwdriver (or similar) and put the end of it on the head of the bolt through the idler pulley. Put your ear to the other end and listen for any bearing noise (works like a stethoscope). If it doesn't sound smooth it needs replacing. Check both idlers and the tensioner pulley this way.
Cheers

"wait... inflammable means flammable???" Sorry, Dr. Nick quote lol

[AdamGardner]

Thanks for the help guys.

After a fair bit of testing etc. It's seems its definitely the belt causing the noise. I got the belt tested and inspected by a mechanic and according to him its okay.... Is it just best to buy a new belt? My mechanic suggested silicon spray - but i assume this would be only a temporary fix, and i'm pretty reluctant to this as it shouldnt need lubrication anyway?

Any helps appreciated!

[Killr6]

the betls are like 30$ for v6, the silcon would fix it but not forever.

stay on the save side and dont be cheap and get a new belt, and keep your old one in the back of the car incase your one breaks.