High Screeching Sound When Starting

[mannymendez25]

Every time I start my 92 5.0 I hear an annoying high pitched screech when starting the car. Once the car is on, the screech is gone. What could this possible be?

 

[mikestang63]

Your belt. Check the tension, the pulleys and the tensioner.

 

[Shakerhood]

Yep, sound like the belt is slipping.

 

[7991LXnSHO]

If the belt and tensioner are both ok (and I doubt it) pull the belt and make sure each accessory is spinning freely, smoothly and is not too hard to get moving. Does it squeek as the AC compressor goes on too?

Wild case possibility, it could be a starter bushing or the squirrel inside the starter making a screeching noise. The Bendix could be wearing out, even if a slipping belt is much more common.

 

[mannymendez25]

OK, i will inspect the belt. I looked at the grooves and they dont look cracked so i didnt change it when i did my first tune up last week. I should change it for some peace of mind. if everything spins freely, does the screeching mean the belt is loose or tight?

it does not screech when the compressor kicks in, only when i start her up.

 

[7991LXnSHO]

A screech is from a slipping belt, and they do not slip from being too tight. Too tight, then accessory item and pulley bearings start to wear out, and the belt can wear out quickly. If your year has the spring loaded tensioner (all years?) it could be weak. I suggested spinning each item by hand as something sticking or that spins really hard can squeal while getting up to speed.