Technical strange noise when cold

[jefflowsley]

Anyone got any ideas, I've got a 2002 Sporting which makes a strange squealing noise at about 2000rpm until it warms up, (after about 5 miles when it abates, but re- occurs occasionally). It's not the gearbox as it does it in neutral, and it's not the alternator, as we've changed that, and we've changed the cam and fan belt, at a bit of a loss really, doesn't seem to effect the running at all it's just a bit annoying, cheers

 

[fingers99]

Unless the alternator belt is fitted incorrectly (slipping) I'd suspect the cam belt tensioner (assuming that wasn't changed with the cam belt -- bad practice).

Best bet, either buy an engine stethescope or use a long screwdriver (blunt end to ear) to listen for it.