I'm not sure which belt it is, but something sounds awful when I start my 1990 accord. After 5-6 seconds, it quiets down. It also sounds sometimes when I accelerate from a dead stop, and sometimes when I turn the A/C on. It never lasts longer than 5-6 seconds. Has anyone had a similar experience and know what this could be?

 

most likely alt belt you can adjust it with the adjustment screw

 

you either need to tighten the belt down with the adjustment screw or check the condition of the belt you might need to relace them if their worn. but that sounds like the problem right there. if thats all your saying it does then im like 98% sure

 

Thanks for the suggestions re: alternator belt. The manual I bought doesn't have instructions for tightening the alternator belt- are there good sources online for that kind of information? Any suggestions?

 

I had the same problem. It turns out that a bearing in the AC compressor was going bad. It was causing a terrible screeching noise when I first turned on the car. As a temporary fix, a mechanic tightened the belt for me, but eventually I was told that the compressor was going to have to be replaced. Instead, I just removed the compressor (it has its own belt). My suggestion to you is to somehow check for bearing noise inside the compressor. That way you know whether you're going to have to replace/remove the compressor or not.

 

BBuncky2-

Was screeching noise only at start up for you, or was it whenever the idle dropped? I'm pretty sure it is a belt in my case, but haven't had the chance to get underneath and take a look.

THanks,
TOm

 

Replace the A/C belt. Probably about $10 or so at your local autoparts store. Not hard to install at all.

 

It was at start, when I began to accelerate, and when I idled.

 

Hey my sisters 95 does that same thing...can anyone help me out on where that A/C belt is!

 

The A/c Belt is, on the side where the serp. belt is,

Just Find The A/c Compressor which would be near the bottom of the motor