My car: 91' RS w/ 305 TBI/ 73K mi./ mods below

About 2 days ago I noticed a whining noise when I started the engine....and it changes with the RPMs. It's definately coming from the engine compartment, but it's kind of hard to tell from where. My 2 guesses are either the alternator or the air pump, but like I said, it's hard to tell.

Any ideas guys??

It's rather quiet, but if the radio is off, you can definately here it. Kind of sounds like a turbocharger or something like that.

 

I had an 88 TBI and I must of changed the damn alternator about 4 times in the 6 years I had the car. And it would make the whining noise just like u are describing. Your bearings in there are probably shot.

 

I've got the same exact car with just about the same exact milage. I would say that your problem is more than likely the alternator. Try using a long screw driver against your ear and try probing for the location of the sound.

 

How would that ghetto stethoscope work?? Which end should I be listening to and should I actually touch the screwdriver, ....I mean stethoscope to the alternator at any point

 

Check your power steering fluid.

 

I did, it's good; altough there is a good leak going.

 

A length of broomstick will work as well. One end on the suspected noise source the other at your ear. You could also remove the belt(s) & see if the noise goes away.

 

touch the tip of the screw driver to the back half of the alt and stick your ear on the butt of the screwdriver. Hopefully you have a long screwdriver. I hate when I get my ****** caught in the drive belts... lol j/k

My g/f saw fit to pick on me about a show she watched of these people getting a make over and the the guy had a full on glorious ******, ripped jeans, and was working on his camaro. He about cried when they put highlights in his hair.

 

Well, it definately seems like the alternator. Woohoo!!! Thanks to all of yall for your help. I'll change it out and let yall know if it goes away.

 

Hey Gunny I take it your a Marine, or are you just a Clint Eastwood fan??

 

Marine; Corporal type

 

Semper Fi Devil Dog!! I use to be a Marine, or still am, you know how the saying goes. Where are you stationed??

 

NAS Atlanta