Whining sounds.. Need some opinions.

[Xero]

Hey all,
Lately (as of last week) my car developed this whine on top of the engine sound. It sounds like when power steering is out and you turn the wheel Except that it's louder when it's cold, and it always whining. Sounds like a belt to me, but I know very little about such things.

Now some background info.
I have a coolant leak from the seal on the rad cap. (Thus, I add antifreeze/H20 every couple days)
When I start the car, it squeals (like when you need a new fanbelt)
The only other time it makes this squealing noise is When I've got the clutch pedal in, and I press on the gas to match revs going into third. (synchros are going)

So yeah. Anyone know why my car sounds like it has a supercharger, then squeals like a pig when I downshift? I have a feeling I should be visiting my mechanic soon, but I figured you guys might help me out of getting screwed by them.

T'anks,
Todd

<small>[ October 02, 2003, 05:01 PM: Message edited by: Zoso124 ]</small>

[Zoso124]

You check the power steering fluid? Are the belts tight? Hows the coolant level now?

My guess is you just have to tighten up one of the belts.

[Xero]

fluids are all okay. How do I check the belt tightness? Just pull on it to see if there's play?

[TsiMiata]

Does the whining change with engine speed or road speed?

[Zoso124]

Originally posted by Xero:
fluids are all okay. How do I check the belt tightness? Just pull on it to see if there's play?

Uh huh, unless you have a tool to test for deflection, but who does.

[pbr]

power steering pump is going

[UrBaNsTyLe55]

they may sound dumb but if you belts are tight spray armoral on it or any type of spray that makes your tire shinny and if its the belt it will make the sound go away but it sounds like a power steering pump

[potatochobit]

your alternator could be going out. it will whine at high RPMs.

[lakersfan1]

I'm thinking you might be spewing antifreeze on your belt and might be causing the sound???