MGB: Interesting Toyota Problem

When I turn the wheel at idle and low speed I get really bad belt squeal and the lights dim significantly. My thought is the power steering or alternator may be going out. Any ideas onto which one?
-David

I'm assuming you've already ruled out worn or loose belts...

If so, sounds like the PS pump since it only happens when turning the wheel. If the pump is trying to seize it would act like a brake against the belt....causing the squeal and slowing it down. Does the same belt spin the alternator?

Your battery may also be weak. It should have enough juice to keep the lights from dimming even if the alt is being slowed or stopped for a couple of seconds...

How old is the battery? I see a lot of strange things at Sears automotive converning batteries and what they can affect. If it is more than 5 years old, throw it away!

Sensor in the PS line that picks up the idle!

Dave

First thing, check the belt tension, or maybe just replace it. The noise is most likely the belt slipping and squeeling. The dimming is probably because the alternator is driven by the same belt.

The tension is fine and its a new belt. They are on the same belt as rod suggested. I'm going to check out the battery tomorrow along with the alternator. Thanks.

From what I have read on this forrum it could not be a problem with the car. All toyota's run to 500K without changing the oil.
Just kidding it is my poor outlook on the michigan economy coming thru.

new belt? possible glazing over from stuff on pullies, and bat or alt....check and replace.

Yeah, Keith. Obviously someone put a Chevy part in to cause that... ;)