My 02 1500 developed a chirping sound at idle, a steady squel above 1500 rpm. Replaced idler and tensioner, and belt, no change. Local Mech. said the water pump is going bad . I've had some weird **** happen over the years but I've never heard of this, is this mechanic trying to talk me into $300 worth of repairs or does it sound legit?

 

Take the belt off, see if there is any play in the pully/shaft. There shouldn't be any.

 

Shetluck,

I think I may be in the same boat as you. I have had the same chirp for months now and I just got around to replacing the idler pulley and the tensioner pulley and it is still there. I am not thinking water pump based on info on this site. Maybe alternator.

Does it sound like this?

 

take the belt off and spin each pulley both directions, if you hear a growl the bearings going bad

 

The belt I took off was in great shape , put a brand new belt on with a new water pump, no noises from any thing else , out of pure frustration put a gatorback belt on it , noise gone!!!!!!!