AC belt squeal

[PaulbusMax]

I bought a Red Dot AC kit for my M1097, which is now installed complete and is working. Problem is the sanden compressor has a two v belt pulley and only one belt can be used due to the new 5 groove fan pulley having one groove for the AC. I tightened that belt up quite snugly, however it squeals significantly. Any ideas? I’m using the belt that came with the kit. It’s a notched type belt.

 

[FlameRed]

I too had this same problem. Same belt setup. I was going to replace all the belts once the Florida Inferno dissipates. I am not sure how old the belts on the truck are, so I was going to replace them all just as general maintenance. Plus the hose for the fan clutch that looks old and has visible cracks.

As a temporary measure, I applied CRC Belt Conditioner to the AC belt and the squeal so far has gone away:

I am not sure how long it abate the squeal but it has lasted a month so far. I don't normal go for voodo stuff like this but it worked - at least so far.

I had hoped that I just had a worn AC belt, and replacing it with a fresh set of belts would permentantly eliminate the squeal but I guess it really needs two belts or be replaced with the serpintine setup?

 

[Mogman]

If you use some imagination you can move the alternator back one groove width, use three belts on the PS/ALT freeing up two grooves on the crank pulley.
The PS pump will tend to squeal a little if the steering is pressed against the stops.
This will also reduce the leverage of the PS/ALT belt against the water pump bearings.

 

[PaulbusMax]

If you use some imagination you can move the alternator back one groove width, use three belts on the PS/ALT freeing up two grooves on the crank pulley.
The PS pump will tend to squeal a little if the steering is pressed against the stops.
This will also reduce the leverage of the PS/ALT belt against the water pump bearings.
View attachment 901149

I’ll look at the setup again with this in mind. Thx