Mysterious Chirping Sound

[RonZwanson]

Hey everyone,

Over the last few weeks, I've noticed a sound when I'm driving, and I can't figure out what's causing it, so I'm soliciting opinions.

When I'm driving, typically 45mph +, I get a slight, but definitely noticeable, chirping sound coming from the passenger side of the engine bay.

The first thing I did was check the belt. My car has about 71k on it, so I figured the belt needs to go (which it probably does soon). However, when I checked it out, the belt seems to be in pretty good shape, actually. I'm the second owner, so who knows, maybe it was replaced before. And since it's more of a chirp than any sort of squeal, I'm thinking it may not be the belt anyway.

I've also let the car idle and opened the hood, trying to locate the sound. Nothing seems to happen AT ALL when the car is just idling, which is frustrating. It seems to only make the sound when I have the car in gear, driving at a decent speed. It doesn't seem to change with acceleration, it's pretty consistent along the rev range or throttle position.

It also doesn't seem to make a difference if I turn the fan (A/C) on. No change there.

Could this be a pulley? Has anyone had a similar issue? Anyone know what I should stare at in the engine bay while I pretend I have a clue how to fix it?


Side note: Anyone know of a DIY post for changing the belt? I've looked around on here and haven't found one. I did find a half-decent one over on a 350 forum.

Thanks.