I have a 1998 SE and when I start it there is a strange noise, almost like a pully rubbing against something, It sounds like it is coming from the passnenger side. The car dosent run any different when it is doing it, and it normally stops once you drive for a minute but it gets annoying. Anyone have any idea what it might be? I have just had this car for about a week and I am just trying to find out what all needs to be replaced/fixed and I am trying to learn about this motor. If you need anymore information about it just let me know. Thanks, Tim

 

Check the serpentine belt tensioner and idler pullies.

 

When I had that noise it was the a/c compressor the clutch on it wasn't releasing properly so was rubbing on the belts etc

 

I just drove it and was really paying attention to when it was doing it. It seemed like it stopped once I started letting out the clutch to go..or it quietened down some, then when the clutch is all the way out during acceleration it completely stops but when you let off the gas to slow down or push the clutch it will start again. This is getting really annoying.. I hope I can figure it out soon!
Thanks I will check the A/C Clutch tomorrow if I get a chance.

Tim

 

This morning I turned the A/C on and off while it was making that noise and it didnt make a difference. Any other suggestions? It sounds like it is getting worse but it dosent effect anything (yet).

 

There have been three times when I would start the car and it would grind, like the starter wasnt connecting to the flywheel all the way. Anyone think this could possibly be related? Like maybe the..I cant think of the name of it, but the gear on the starter, isnt going all the way back down so it just kinds scrapes every once in a while?

 

Noticed something new this morning. When I was backing out of the driveway as I would let out the clutch it would get louder, then when the clutch was pushed back in it would change again.... Which leads me to think it might be something in the clutch maybe.. What does a bad TOB sound like?

 

If its a loud squeeling noise its probably your serpentine belt or power steering belt. Their either worn out or too loose, i recommend a haynes manual if you want to do it yourself. Try to pin point the noise while someone else turns the motor on.

 

I know the belts need replacing but this is more of a metal-on-metal kind of noise and it wont do it when I get out to check....It seems ok at idle and when I rev the motor by the t-body but when i start to go it starts again.