Hi Donuts...

MadeInJapan's advice is absolutely correct, whether the noise is from one of the pulleys on the timing belt, or the serpentine (accessory drive) belt.

If it's a t-belt pulley, and it seizes, you lose the engine. If it's a drive belt pulley, you lose the alternator and power steering, but there is no long term damage... you'd be able to drive a reasonable distance to a repair shop or home.

You can open the hood before you start the engine on a cold morning, be prepared with a length of rubber hose or long screwdriver (to use as a listening tool), start it up, and then try to more accurately locate the source of the noise.

Then change whichever is the offending pulley. You'd hate yourself if something goes wrong, and you're either left stranded, or looking for a new car.

Let us know what you find please?


Marty
'96 855T