So last weekend I did my SC oil service. While I was at it I changed bypass valve, water pump, thermostat, flushed coolant, and changed my serpentine belt. The belt I used was the NAPA 60539.
I drove the car for about 200 miles since this service and it seems to be running better, until today.
This morning it just seemed a little sluggish at time but I couldn't put my finger on it. On my way to lunch while warming her up I noticed a strange rattle like sound mixed with a bit of a squeal. It only lasted a few seconds and went away. On my way home while decelerating down an exit ramp the rattle and squeal/ squeak came back. This lasted a little longer and it seemed like it was coming from the front right of the car. I pulled over and checked the belt area while it was running and didn't notice anything. So now I am home and wondering what to check first.
Could it just be my belt? An issue with one of my pullies? Could the 10 year old tensioner be on its way out? Not sure if these things just break or if there are warnings like this.
Any advice would be much appreciated.
SC sounds normal and my scan gauge doesn't appear to show a loss of boost or voltage (in case it was my alternator).

 

It could be the belt slipping. That would be my 1st guess also. How much tension is on it? How many holes are visible on the tensioner? You should see at least 1 or your belt is too long.

 

I was questioning that. It only shows the top of the first hole.
I just ordered a new tensioner from way a few days ago just as a precaution. Thought I had the right belt but the tensioner was on its way out. Maybe not.

I've read a lot about the crank pulley going bad - are there any warning signs to that?

 

You need to see more then the top of the hole. I have a 15% and use the 535 belt.
Usually when the crank pulley goes you will get noises and wobbles a lot of the time and CEL. Go out and look under the bonnet to see if your CP is wobbling. Maybe if rev the engine to see if you hear or see anything.

 

Thanks bram. I'll check out the cp and see if I can locate the smaller belt in the am. Hopefully it's just the belt. Finger crossed.

 

Keep us posted.

 

So I do feel I need a shorter belt and I will replace that when the tensioner comes in today or Monday, but unfortunately it doesn't seem like that's the issue.
I couldn't figure out why I couldn't duplicate the issue while I was under the hood. So, went for a quick ride while all was quiet and it seems like its coming from the rt front wheel area and is only when underway.
Doesn't sound like what I would expect to be a bearing. Jacked up the car and spun the wheel. I hear slight brake noise but nothing like what I here under way. The search continues.

 

To check the wheel bearing grasp one of the front tires at the top and at the bottom and attempt to rock it in and out. Be aware that any in or out movement may point to a worn wheel bearing. Repeat for the other front tire. Rotate the tire and listen for any squeaking and be aware of any roughness when the wheel is turning, indicating that the wheel bearing may be worn and will need to be replaced.