Loud noise(s) from Engine Bay

[DuluthFoxbody]

New to the Foxbody world, but have been reading a ton on these cars ever since I picked up an '88 GT.

Basically, I'm hearing what I can only describe as loud noises from the engine bay. It's not a ticking or anything from idle and seems to be coming directly from the A/C compressor and power steering pump area. Sounds maybe slightly grindy, but there is also kind of a whirring sound similar to a power steering pump. I did check the power steering and there is fluid in there already, but I don't know if it quite sounds like a typical pump or low fluid issue. I actually put a stethoscope on that pump and also the A/C compressor...not too loud from the steering, but when I put the stethoscope on what I guess it the surround for the compressor clutch...it's noticeably loud. Should it be? The A/C still blows cold and it doesn't really seem to be quieter with it on or off; I've listened both ways. To me it sounds kind of like a pulley that needs to be replaced, but not an expert.

I know LMR has that clutch component, but before throwing money at this does anyone have any thoughts as to whether this is the compressor going bad or just that pulley/clutch? I don't know the full history on the vehicle, but I'm pretty sure the compressor and power steering are original.

Any advice is appreciated.

Example of Sound

 

[Blackhawkxx]

You could pop the belt off and spin each pulley by hand to feel if they are smooth or grinding/dry.

 

[2000xp8]

Me personally, i'd do both.
If you lose the compressor pulley the belt is going to come off, i certainly know how that feels.
Both meaning clutch kit and power steering pump. And if you have the pump out, be 100% sure the tie rods and rack are good.
It's a slippery slope.

 

[DuluthFoxbody]

You could pop the belt off and spin each pulley by hand to feel if they are smooth or grinding/dry.

Yeah, definitely need to do that. Thanks.

 

[DuluthFoxbody]

Me personally, i'd do both.
If you lose the compressor pulley the belt is going to come off, i certainly know how that feels.
Both meaning clutch kit and power steering pump. And if you have the pump out, be 100% sure the tie rods and rack are good.
It's a slippery slope.

That's what concerns me...I've seen a failed compressor pulley ripped off the cover on a Coyote before; I don't think it would be the same situation with the 302, but losing the belt wouldn't be fun.

Thanks for the heads up, I'm still in the process of just trying to get a reliable baseline and things definitely seem to pop up.

 

[DadLife0724]

 

[General karthief]

when the need arises to buy parts, be careful and shop around, I always check Rockauto and local parts stores for price and availability, nothing against LMR, they have the BEST customer service (IMO) but the replacement parts they sell are the same as RA and oriellyzone but cost more + shipping so shop around.

 

[gkomo]

RockAuto for sure. Agree with removing the belt and spinning the pulleys by hand.

 

[Noobz347]

Loud noises form the engine bay?

Perhaps it's the engine.

 

[LILCBRA]

Loud noises form the engine bay?

Perhaps it's the engine.

 

[Noobz347]

If it sounds like that, you're probably ok.