So i checked and noticed I didn't have the bolt between the alternator bracket and power steering pump, put it in and its still squealing like no tomorrow. I know with some cars, mainly newer, that you can replace the pulley bearing; so does that apply to our classics by any chance ? And if that bearing is changeable, would anyone know a part number for a 77-80 Olds 350? Any and all help is appreciated..

 

Your belt could be glazed and no longer holding on to the pulleys. Make sure it's not the belt before you take the power steering or alternator apart, you probably need a new belt anyway .... Tedd

 

Ive checked the belt, tension and still had the squeal. Checked the rotation of the pulley and it comes to a dead halt. Was told when its still, the bearing in the pulleys gone as they should rotate freely.

 

There are no "pulley" bearings. The pump has a front bearing that requires complete rebuild of the pump to replace. I don't know what "checked the rotation of the pulley" means, but if you simply tired to spin it with the belt off, of course it will come to a stop - there's a pump full of PS fluid attached to it. If the bearing is bad, PS fluid will be leaking out the front of the pump.

Nearly every complaint of PS belt squeal is due to improper adjustment of the belt. This comes up about once a month here. Read this about belt adjustment.

 

Not sure if there are differences in the 307 and 350 PS system, but I’d like to make sure I'm correct. There are 3 bolts to loosen when adjusting the tension? I, like most im sure, thought it would be the one bolt on the front side of the pump behind the bracket? I’ve read the belt adjustment guide, but maybe you could explain if I am missing something.

i do appreciate you pointing me in the right direction though, thank you.

 

All 1968-1990 Olds V8s mount the PS pump exactly the same. This applies to any of those.

 

I should also ask, have you ever had the PS pump bracket off the motor? Are the two spacers in place between the bracket and the block?

 

Thank you Joe, I appreciate you. So the bolt on the front, I get. The one you said in the back of the pump, are we talking about the bolt that holds the alternator and PS bracket? Sorry, not with my car right now so I cant check; but would like to have a note for when I get in to put it all back together. Again, thank you much an preciate ya 👍🏾

 

i have, as I had to change my pump due to it leaking last year. Spacers are in there as they should be, and the pump came off an early 80s Caprice if I’m not mistaken. But it bolted right up and all my hoses fit without an issue. No leaks nor air in the system.

 

Joe is very correct in this. (like that is a surprise) If you glazed the belt, trash it or put it in the trunk in case you break one sometime. It will get you home. Put on a new belt. I always put belts on so I can read the lettering on it from in front of the car and it is not upside down. That way I always put the belt on the same way. It does make a difference. They do form to the shape of the pulleys in time.

Belts are cheap. Put on a new one.
Just my 2 cents
Larry

 

 

I appreciate ya Larry. When this started, it started with the belt being new. The squeal was and still is intermittent; with no solution in sight. Tension has been right (though I don't feel so now after reading about that hidden rear bolt), and I've gone through lines and belts for leaks and signs of wearing. Once I figure out this rear bolt issue, I should be fine I hope; but thats why I came to you guys. I knew there’d be someone (or folks) here that could help. I appreciate ya all man

 

Thank you Joe. Once I get home i’ll be able to assess this a bit more. Im not familiar with those two bolts, so hopefully its not something i’m missing.

 

You'll never get the belt tight enough if you don't use the factory-designed leverage points.

 

This is an eye opener, as ive never noticed that before. And nothing anyones ever shown either, much appreciated

 

If the belt is properly tensioned, and still slips, take a wire brush and rough up the pulley surface, where the belt rides. Then, with the engine running, place the wire brush CAREFULLY against the belt to remove the glaze. Make sure the belt isn’t riding at the bottom of the pulley sheave, it needs to grip the V part of the pulley.

 

Tore the pulley off, all bolts present. Loosened the rear bolt and front two, readjusted properly as per books spec, tightened everything down; continuous squeal. New belt, scuffed up pulley a bit, and still squealing. At this point, Im ready to replace the whole thing; bracket and all. Any other suggestions? And thank you for all previous, trust me. Ive checked, double checked, and show it to 3 different GM techs I know who have been working with these engines since they came out and were all scratching our heads..

 

Can you show us a picture of the belt installation. Sounds like you have an accessory being driven by 2 different size pulleys.

 

Apologies for the delay in a response, but the problem has been solved thanks to you guys. Checked the pump bracket and sure as sunfire there was two bolts missing. Replaced both bolts, re-tensioned the belts as per their tension point, with a little extra oomph and squeak has been gone ever since. Had a video I tried to post but couldn't upload it for some odd reason....but also took the time to re-time the engine and power wash it. Next found a few leaks I wasn't sure where they were originating from, and needless to say it's well beyond due for a re-gasket job. So at the end of the month, she will be getting re-gasketed, and hopefully a new carb/intake. After Christmas, I will also be replacing the entire front end suspension and HOPEFULLY if I can find somewhere that ships, the rear bumper assembly. I appreciate the help, and especially diagrams I got from the CO community !