I have a 01 dodge 1500, and I have this terrible squeal from the engine compartment. The squeal is not constant, it will do it when I get into the mid 2000 rpm sometimes. It also does it when its cold and just sitting idleing. The only thing i can think of is the serpentine belt but I see no wear or tear on the belt?? I have no clue what it is.

And question number two, I'm losing anti-freeze and I can't figure out where its going? I can't find any leaks, holes or what not. No puddle on the ground or anything like that. I can smell hot anti freeze which leads me to believe there is a leak somewhere?

Can anyone help me???? thanks

 

Yea I've thought of that, but I just replaced it last year about this time, and the squeal sounds different from last time.

 

You are describing a common water pump failure, give it some time you will see anti freeze on the pass side of the front diff tube.

 

your problems sound related and point to the waterpump. time will tell.
a good water pump test is to dry everything off, crank it up and run it at temperature. then shut it off and let it sit about 5-10-15 minutes. it will build up heat and pressure and leak around the seal, and drip directly under the wp.

also, temporarily remove the belt and see if the noise stops. beware the water pump is not turning, so it will overheat quickly.

next grab each pulley and wiggle it, then spin it. it should be tight, but not too tight, no play, no noise, etc.

idler pulley, tensioner, is easily replaceable. water pump is more difficult. alternator is easy, but expensive.

 

Parts don't last for ever, the squealing is probably anti freeze getting on the belt and slipping, or the water pump bearing is on it's way out. it usually starts as a mist then turns into a leak. also could be bypass hose with a pin hole in it.

 

This is true, Thanks for the help guys. This water pump deal has bad timing it likes to go out when its about zero degrees out... shoot

 

Hellz yeah, that's old man Murphy moving in on you. I've had the well pump to my house up and die in November, on a Saturday, 40º and overcast. I went through three pumps from Home Depot before getting one that actually worked, and by that time the temp dropped to the mid-30's and the drizzle started. By the time I had running water to the house and could go to bed it was 11:30pm.