Well, ever since the little shield that resides over the alternator in the engine compartment decided to detach itself and hide between the pulley on the front of the alternator and the little fin lookin' things in the alternator itself, things have been going down hill.

A republican was elected president, the economy has gone to crap, and oh yeah, I've gone through 2 batteries.

Yes, I removed the piece of debris...

Anyways, for about a week now after 30 minutes of driving or so, a squeeling sound begins to eminate from the alternator area. I thought it was the belts so I checked the tension... all was well there. as in not loose and not tight. I checked them for "glazed-ness" and slippage, again all was well. I took a spray bottle full of water and sprayed each individual belt thing as the motor was running (and the squeeling was happening) and nothing happened.

When the engine is being revved, the squeeling stops, but as soon as the RPM's plateau or start to drop (i.e. I take my foot off the gas) the squeeling starts right back up.

Do I need a new alternator? That would suck. I already need a new radiator, all new hoses, a new turbo, a new head gasket and major tranny overhaul. So much for Volvo's lasting forever (yes, I take care of it, oil every 3k, 99% Volvo parts, most work done at dealer, other work done at prestigious foriegn auto place).

Any news on this would be good, I'm just wondering if it's safe to drive? I haven't driven it longer than 10 minutes after the squeeling starts, I don't want to have a melted motor if I have to drive it longer...

thanks

Ryan