Whenever I have my music(1600watts)on and other things such as lights, heat, defrosters my alternator go crazy. The squealing is really getting to me. Is there anyway to solve this problem or is the best thing just to get a new higher output alternator. The belt is in good condtion and i have recently tighten it. Thanks

 

Squealing is usually the belt. Get a new one, they're cheap. When they get old, the rubber gets hard & slippery but they still look OK. If you overtighten it you'll just be buying alternator bearings quicker.

 

Is it squealing or a whining sound?

 

it is more of a squealing sound. It mainly does it on start up and when downshifting. How tight should the belt be?

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by GReddy212 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">How tight should the belt be? </TD></TR></TABLE><TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Perfectionist &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Year? Model? Please move a little to the left. I can't see your car.</TD></TR></TABLE>LOL - I like that quote...

Usually, take the long span of the belt & push it with your thumb. You should be able to push it 1/4" or so. But that varies a bit depending on what car you have.