Chirp/squeal when cold-last few minutes

[gijoe985]

So, I've got a 97 avalon xls, 180k. Winter has hit and we've noticed a chirping/squeeking sound that started once we got sub 40 degree weather. This doesn't sound like a belt squeel, but I won't rule that out yet. The sound is a bit like a bearing chirp, but it is seriously like the sound of a belt and bearing together. A constant noise like a belt, but also a chirp that goes with rpms like a bearing. It goes away once the vehicle gets to operating temperature.

My main question is if Avalons have any known bearings that go? I have been reading around the forum . Saw a bunch of people with bad belts and a couple mentions about alternator bearings. I'm having a hard time really pinpointing the sound. It sounds like it is coming from the front center section of the motor. I am hoping it isn't a water pump. Not sure where it is located, I haven't looked at the engine much. I assume that it is inside and powered by the timing belt.

Anyway, any extra direction would be nice. It is cold outside and I wouldn't mind having a few good ideas before I start digging to deep.

[fourwheeler]

I had the same issue with my car last year. Check the alternator belt, may be a bit loose. The timing belt drives the water pump.

[gijoe985]

After listening to it more today, it really doesn't sound like a belt. It almost sound like it is coming from 4-6" back from the belts. Toward the back of the engine. Other than valvetrain, I don't know what is moving back there that could make a sound. And I've never heard valvetrain make noises like that... Still stumped...

[gijoe985]

Anyone have any other possible ideas other than belt and pulleys? It just doesn't seem to be coming from there and beyond that, I don't know what would make this noise... Maybe I can make a video or something...

[fourwheeler]

timing belt / water pump?

[pmesfun]

video would help.

[D0UG]

Replace the outer drive belts and see if that cures it. If not, I am betting on the tension pully bearing for the timing belt. Every timing belt that I have replaced on a Camry or Avalon - - that tension roller bearing was already failing. It seems the belts last longer than the tensioner.