Cricket Chirp Noise From Engine?

[RichardLee]

So I am about a week into my 4runner experience (just picked it up last weekend) and have begun to notice a strange noise coming from the engine of my 99 limited 4x4 v6. At about 2500 rpm, a squeaky 'crickety' noise begins coming from the engine (regardless of vehicle speed or transmission gear, even in park) and as the rpms increase, so does the volume, intensity, and frequency of the 'chirping.' I'm not very knowledgeable about these engines (or engines in general really...) but it almost sounds like a belt or some bearings or something. It sounds like something needs some lubrication. The vehicle was brought to Sears about two weeks ago for a complete fluid flush/refill and got new belts, battery, and tires. Is it possible to put on a belt wrong? Is it maybe just something wet or something else that I shouldn't worry about? Should I bring it in to get it checked out? Has anyone else heard this from their 3rd gen V6?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions...

 

[seymourwaterz]

I have the same exact noise. Not sure what it is either. My runner is doing fine tho. The chirp isnt loud and i`m apparently the only one that notices it because my wife thinks im delusional and hearing stuff.

 

[techno]

Mine doesn't make that noise, but I think you are correct in thinking a belt is the culprit. Not sure on your mechanical skills, but I would try playing around with the belt tensions, one at a time, and seeing if that has any effect. Also, you might try squirting some related bearings with wd40 or similar.

 

[t4r4life]

use a smoke machine to check for exhaust and intake manifold leaks

 

[juiceboxer]

My Money is on the belts, I had the same problem, replaced all three belts and have yet to hear a chirp again

 

[RichardLee]

Well, I just got back from Sears Auto. They checked and adjusted belt tensions (under warranty... they were very easy to work with) and after adjusting one of the tensioners that must have been the culprit, my runner is running quiet and squeak-free. I'm happy that it was an easy fix and surprised at how quiet this engine is now, seemingly quieter than the 4 cyl in my 98 Accord.

 

[Qyota]

V6's have that advantage (smoother than inline 4s), and V8's are smoother yet (and most of the time quieter).

Glad you figured it out!

 

[twitchee2]

new belts will stretch a little, so when they are a first put on they will be tight then after a little use, they stretch and get loose. happened to me as well. just tightened them up and was good to go.

 

[seymourwaterz]

I love my quiet engine. My wife hates driving it because she thinks the truck cuts off every time she comes to a stop. Compared to her Mazda MPV and old PT cruiser its amazing how quiet it is.