I've done some research to see how to fix my problem but have come up empty handed.

Problem: On cold starts power steering will squeak loudly, and power assist will fail leaving car very hard to turn but only until warm up.

Cause: Checked fluid, no bubbles, clean and filled to level. Squeak comes from power steering belt.

Solution: Tension belt for tighter contact.

Only problem is...I have no idea how to do that! I took off the cover and saw the 10mm bolt that is about 10'' long and connections the slider groove to the alternator. However, that bolt does not look like it would adjust the alternator to take some of the slack away from the belt.

My question is, is there a way to tension the belt without replacing it entirely?

Thanks in advance!

 

Yes.

Locate the big bracket that the pump and alternator are bolted to. You'll see a fairly decent sized bolt that goes almost vertical through the bracket. That is the adjuster. Adjust as needed.

 

I'd had to be a Needy Nancy but do you by chance have a pic with that bolt circled just so I don't blow up my car?

 

I do. I don't really have a way of reproducing it to the internet. Not one that is quick. Got a fax machine?

 

mine has the same problem

 

Sent.

 

Lots of Love...Ryan you crack me up mate.

I owe you a beer sir!

 

I make learning fun!

 

Yeah that was the bolt I was turning but it seems that the alternator bolt is on a slide groove that is in the uppermost position on the groove.

The bolt is secured all the way as well...is that the 'most tensioned' position?

I should also mention that when Jerry looked at my car he noticed my accessory pulley is not stock - it is smaller to glean 2-4bHp (the previous owner was obviously a rah-tard); would this screw me?

 

If you're at the limit of adjustment then yes, you're going to need to replace the belt. Take the belt you have now off and get one a size or two down. Seems a stock belt might be a tad too long. Then again, it's probably stretched out and another stocker might help.

I can't recall off the top of my head what size they suggest for accessory underdrive pulleys.

 

What is the stock size? I can give that a shot...is the belt easy to replace? It looks like it kinda is - just release the alternator from the groove by taking out the bolt, replacing the belt then refitting the alternator and bolting it back.

Am I missing anything?

 

The belt is super easy. I replaced my PSP about a year ago i believe. Once you have all the covers and everything off and out of the way, its simple.

 

You just loosed the alternator. Don't unbolt it. It's a cake-walk. Stock size... erm... I know the part number! That might not help.

 

How much you guys letting one go for? I found one at O'Reilly's for $15.99.

 

Not a bad deal.