Squeaking or screeching?  If it screeches when its cold, or when
accelerating from a stop, it could be a simple problem of a loose or glazed
belt.  Look at the belt surface;  I believe it should be notched.  It should
also not be shiny.  If you can grab it while the engine is not running (!)
and slide it past the pulley, it is probably too loose, and is causing your
problems.  If it is glazed (shiny and cracked) replace it.

If the belt is not glazed and not too loose, check the side play of the
bearings by loosening the belt and pushing the pulley up and down.  I don't
know the exact spec, but there shouldn't be any real play in the bearings.
(It should be fairly obvious if there is).

Good luck,

Brent Christensen
'89 GL Syncro Westy
Santa Barbara, CA

----- Original Message -----
From: Brett Ellingson <bellingson@LOCALACCESS.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, May 01, 2000 10:11 PM
Subject: squeaking from alternator?

> My 87 Westy has recently developed a squeaky noise that seems to be
> coming from the alternator.  It tends to make the noises only when it is
> cold.  The battery light on the dashboard remains lit until the
> accelator is depressed.  Does this sound like the beginning of an
> alternator going bad?
>
> Brett Ellingson
> 87 Westy