Earlier this summer I replaced Explorer's (2003 4.0L) the alternator (130a) with a 250a and had to get a shorter belt due to the overdrive pulley.
All went well until it dropped down below 40* for several weeks. Now when the expo is running I get the embarrassing squeal.
I haven't had a chance to dig into it but I did notice that when the headlights are on, they're a bit dimmer than normal at idle but over about 800rpm they're brighter as normal. It doesn't seem to get louder or higher pitched with engine rpm.
My suspicion is the belt has stretched just enough where it doesn't have the full tension & the alternator pulley is squeaking.
I asked around at the auto parts store about the belt dressing & they said it could make the squeal even worse. I'm thinking I'll have to find another new belt that's maybe 1/2" shorter than what I have now.
BTW when I got the 1st new belt, it was so short that I couldn't even get the tensioner back far enough to get the belt on
This new belt was a snug fit but I guess it's stretched a bit or it could be the fact that I saved $10 getting the house brand.
Any home remedies to try before climbing under the hood to swap belts again?