i have a 96 civic cx hatch that has been making a high pitched squeal every now and again sinc eit starting getting cold. It is happening more frequently now.

There's no AC or Power Steering, its a barebones civic. So i'm thinking its either the alternator or alternator belt.

Is there anyway to check voltage or resistance of the alternator to see if its on its way out (without taking it to the shop for $100 alternator test)?

Could hte squeal be something else that i'm missing?

 

probably the best tension, maybe too loose..

if you rev the car hard it'll probably stop? or if you come to a junction or try pull away with little revs (almost stall) it's start squelling again?

just tension the belt properly i would think. never heard of alternators making noises like that.

probably dampness on the belt due to the weather as you said.

 

Check the tension, or replace the belt. That'll probably solve your problem.

 

If the belt tension does not seem real loose just splash a little water (or spit) on the inside edge of the belt while it is idling. If the squeal goes away momentarily it's the belt and /or tension. If the squeal persists it could be the alternator bearings......time for a new or rebuilt part.