Guys,

On start up, my 91 XJS 3.6 makes a load of squealing noises from the engine bay, not sure where as haven't been able to look into it further yet. But about half a mile max down the road the noise will disappear completely. It also will go if I rev the engine a bit before setting off, and the squealing will get louder and more apparent the harder I rev until it just goes away and vanishes for the rest of the journey.

It also doesn't seem to happen when it's warm out and the car has warmed up etc, only when it's cold and the car has been stood overnight or for more than a few hours or so.

I'm guessing it's a belt of some sort, but what belt could we be talking about???

Help would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Darren

 

Whichever one is loose, or most worn. Take a peek, I'll bet you find a loose one. A bit of snugging up and you'll be good to go.

If one isobviously worn, andthey are more than 5 years old, just replace all of'em and get it over and done with all at once.

Cheers
DD

 

I realized tonight that it only happens when I stick the heater on, so I'm guessing it's something to do with the heater system, what could be squealing with the heater system under the hood???

 

Hmmm. Whenever the climate control system is on the a/c compressor can engage....even when hot air is being called for.

Next time this happens hit the "a/c" button real quick for force the compressor to DISengage. If the noise stops immediately you may be on to something.

Cheers
DD

 

Hey Doug, did what you asked mate and it definitely goes away once I deactivate the AC / Heater. Do you know how many belts the 3.6 has in its bay? I assumed there was only the fanbelt and the cambelt, but now it sounds as though there might be an air con belt or something, or is that the same as the fanbelt?

 

I don't know off hand. I'm gussing at least three: a/c compressor, alternator, power steering.

Someone who knows for sure will chime in.

Cheers
DD

 

And air pump for the US market.