Bypassing the AC with Serpentine belt

**AtLarge** · 03-14-2008, 11:47 AM

I've got an 88 CK1500 350 that is squeeking badly at all RPM's. It's not a squeel like you usually hear when the AC locks up on old cars. It's a definite squeek. I don't think it's the tensioner pulley or the coaster pulley. Just by ear I think it's either the AC compressor or the Smog / Air Pump. If it is one of those two can I bypass one or the other by going with a shorter serpentine belt? If so, is there a good way to measure for the new size or just trial and error? I'll be working on it Saturday or Sunday so I'm just trying to think ahead and be prepared. If it is one of those two I don't want to spend the money on my old beater. I just want to stop the obnoxious noise it's making. TIA.

**Nitrous** · 03-14-2008, 06:44 PM

Yes you can run a smaller belt and bypass the A/C but I'm not sure if it will mess with the tuning from the smog pump. Usually if it's the A/C it will squeal worse with the clutch engaged. Put a wooden rod on each of your accessories until you can hear the loudest noise and I bet you'll find your squeal. Could be the tensioner.

**AtLarge** · 03-15-2008, 04:03 AM

Thanx for the reply. Turns out it was the smog pump. I put a shorter belt on to bypass that but it still goes around the AC. No more squeel. Nice and quiet. I guess if the check engine light comes on oh well. I'm still gonna get a few more miles out of this puppy and I'm currently at 170k. Everyone gasp for their last breath of air.