Power steering belt

[Tom L.]

My 454 has a minor belt squeel at 2000rpm has developed into a scream at 1500. The belts look to be aligned dead on, the belt is new so I began removing belts to see which it was. I am left with the power steering belt only and the noise is the same. I'll describe it like this, When the engine first starts a big squeel is heard then quiet, as engine speed reaches 1500rpm the scream begins. This is without the steering wheel turning and doesn't seem to be an issue at idle.

My question is this...Is this a sign of a bad pump or possibly power steering valve or piston? Is the pressure building up as engine speed increases to the point that the belt can't handle the load? thanks!

[Rich G.]

Re: Power steering belt

Is the belt just loose? It needs to be pretty tight. Rev it up while looking at the belt. You shouldn't see it flopping around.

[Tom L.]

Re: Power steering belt

I ran it loose, unreasonably tight (No deflection) and correct (3/8" to 1/2" deflection) but no change. This is why I'm starting to look at component issues. At this point only the power steering and water pump are connected. No change under any adjustments....I don't get it.