Belt squeal/Powr Steer Loss (when raining??)

[T4Rnewb]

I've had my 2002 t4r 4wd since december and on a handful of occasions i've noticed that I sometimes get a 3 to 5 second squeal from a belt on a cold start. Also, after the few seconds of squeal stops, if I make an immediate turn when I start moving it feels as though the power steering is acting up, but only for that first turn, then its fine for the rest of the drive. Ive also noticed that it only seems to happen when its parked outside and it has rained. It has happened on cool mornings (I'm in Ga, don't want to use the word "cold") but i'm not sure that the temperature has as much to do with it as the condensation.
I've done some searching on the forum and have found plenty of posts about checking the belts and what causes them to squeal, but I was just curious if anyone has ever heard of condensation being a factor.

 

[Johnate0]

I get the same noise upon cold start sometimes when its wet out. I haven't noticed anything strange with the power steering though as I usually let the truck warm up for a bit before driving (depending on how cold it is)

I don't worry about the noise though. Unless it gets worse its just a minor annoyance.

 

[twitchee2]

Check the tension in your belts and tighten accordingly.

 

[cfranck1]

Check the tension in your belts and tighten accordingly.

:iagree:

Belt tension is loose. The squeal you hear is it slipping a little.

 

[T4Rnewb]

ok cool, I figured it was, just wanted to make sure it wasnt anything more than a simple adjustment. thanks guys

 

[THEREALTOR1]

I get the same thing. How many miles do you have on your truck? I"ve got about 98xxx and i've noticed that same thing since about 80xxx. I think she's trying to tell me something. Talked to my mechanic about it, and whatever you do, don't spray any of that spraycan belt dressing **** on them. It just makes a mess.

 

[Diagram14]

Just change the belts. They do wear out. Your squeal will go away.

 

[Rock Slide]

Had the EXACT same issue. Belt just needed replacing (too old and worn out to worry with just tightening it).

I did find it funny though that the belt only squealed upon start up, after sitting overnight & only after it rained. lol

 

[markopolo]

Any links to installation guidelines for this? I have the repair manual but would love some advice from people who have done it before, possibly with pictures!?!

 

[TheDurk]

Any links to installation guidelines for this? I have the repair manual but would love some advice from people who have done it before, possibly with pictures!?!

How to: Change Drive Belts 3.4 L 5VZ-FE - YotaTech Forums
This and other good write-ups available in the Documentation sticky at the top of this forum.