Whirring sound front end

[shabazmo]

This weekend I noticed a whirring sound that sounds like a bearing has gone. It is comming from the front end at low down, centre to near side. The sound changes as the revs increase, but its difficult to place exactly where it is. I also noticed that the voltmeter took about 30 seconds to reach 14v when I started the car this morning. I am sure it reaches this figure within a few seconds normally.

Given that the alternator is at the OS of the car, I am confused. I will need to start stripping the front end, but any ideas from anyone.
Thanks. Cam belt replaced 30K miles ago

[adamss24]

Either the relay roller, tensioner or the water pump...

[shabazmo]

Thanks Chris, What is the relay roller?

Having taken the floor cover off, I think the noise is comming from the aircon compressor but can't be sure. I will have to remove the front end and take the belt and see if the sound disappears.
Job for the weekend. Hope that its ok for my 400 mile round trip up north.

Anyone had this experience.

[shabazmo]

It was the relay roller tensioner for the aircon compressor belt. Adams24 does it again

[halfpint]

i've got the same problem, and my mechanic thinks its the power steering pump.

[paul b]

i've got the same problem, and my mechanic thinks its the power steering pump.

Is the poly V belt at the front of the engine flapping and vibrating when you turn to full lock while stationary?

That is something you can check yourself.

[shabazmo]

I thought that as well, but luckily it was only the tensioner. About £30. When I removed the tensioner, it rotated freely but you can hear a sound from it. I reckon the power steering pump will be a lot more expensive. best of luck.

[paul b]

I thought that as well, but luckily it was only the tensioner. About £30. When I removed the tensioner, it rotated freely but you can hear a sound from it. I reckon the power steering pump will be a lot more expensive. best of luck.

I'm just wondering if halfpint's mechanic has diagnosed it correctly...