Strange squeaking noise...

[Larrychips]

Hi guys,

The car:
1997 Mk3 GTi 8v  (AGG)
Fresh oil/oil filter - new plugs - new HT leads - new air filter - new gearbox oil - recently cleaned throttle body - new fuel filter.
Mainly used on long journeys (45miles+) 2-3 times a week.

The problem:
I've noticed a rather strange squeaking noise coming from my engine, its got progressively louder over the last couple of months.  Its coming from, I think, either the water pump or power-steering pump...just below the alternator somewhere.  Its far more noticeable when the engine is cold, however it does not completely disappear when the engine is warm.  Any ideas what it could be?   I am thinking the bearings in the water pump, does this sound like a common problem?  Its not a belt slipping, the sound is constant and all the belts seem tight and in good order. 

Any ideas? 

Thanks in advance!

[Adam]

Just before I sold me mk3 I had the same sort of problem. Got it on the ramp and found it to be the crank shaft pulley.

Not sure if that helps

[Larrychips]

Just before I sold me mk3 I had the same sort of problem. Got it on the ramp and found it to be the crank shaft pulley.

Not sure if that helps

Eeeek!  That sounds expensive!     

[Adam]

Just before I sold me mk3 I had the same sort of problem. Got it on the ramp and found it to be the crank shaft pulley.

Not sure if that helps

Eeeek!  That sounds expensive!     

Around £100 for that if I can remember correctly.

Might not be that. When you rev hight does the sound disappear?

[Larrychips]

Can't really tell if it goes away at high revs...my engine is pretty noisy above 3k or so.  I can hear it change pitch when I blip the accelerator, and I guess I am not aware of it at motorway speeds. Its most noticeable in traffic...its at its loudest for the 2 or 3 minutes from starting it cold. 

[local_boy]

Take the Aux belts off and run the car, if the noise dissapears then you know where to look. If not then its internal/cambelt noise.

[christomk3gti]

before you go do anything..

1. Grab yourself a can of WD40
2. Lift up the bonnet and spray your POWER STEERING PUMP (the pulley and try get it inside the bearing, and then spray the belt itself. It will not damage it!!!!)

3. There isnt a 3. because its deffo your power steering pump... mines the same.

4. If there is a 3, then spray the other auxillary units (pullys and bearings) one by one and see when the noise dissapears.

Good luck