Just trun th A/C off, if its the compressor the noise should stop, unless the clutch is permantly energised, you could even unplu it.

 

the noise from belt is different than one coming from a bearing . I will also replace the belts .
In fact I will do a rebuilt in some other parts
Will replace the Ac compressor , the Hydroboost and rebuilt the gear box , is going to be a painful week in my pocket

 

I had the same exact noise you describe and it ended up being the small ball bearings inside the belt tensioner . for months the noise got louder till one morning on my way to work at 4:00AM a few miles away from napa auto parts finally all the ballbearings gave up on me ... had to pull over at a shopping center and wait till napa opened . the guys at napa were nice enough to deliver the belt tensioner to the parking lot and 40$ later i was back up on the road noise free ....

 

Hmr May I ask how easy it is to change the belt-tensioner and how long does it take?

Thanks..

 

It's quite easy. Remove serpentine belt, remove 2 bolts and old tensioner, reverse process to install. I think they are about $60.

Good Luck!

 

Thanks for the info, may I ask is it easy to access e.g. does anything significant need removing like air-intake?

 

if I remember only the air intake tube for better clearance

 

Being a contortionist would also be quite helpful. Easy but awkward and uncomfortable places to reach. It seems like the older I get to more uncomfortable and awkward things also get...

 

Ah I figuered the air-intake recalling changing my condensor and a/c compressor.

If age is a factor I'm screwed!!

 

So lucky .
. Took a chance and replace the Ac tensioner. Bingo .. that was the problem

also replaced the belts for Continental elite since the olds were Acdelco and even new they were making noise for 5 min after start