Volvo s80 transmission whine

[mortoni]

Hi, Guys,

My s80 1999 2.9L has developed a loud whine/hum which is getting louder and louder.

The sound increases with the the speed of the engine - running or at idle.

Is this a transmission issue or something else. I've tried to pin point it with a stethoscope but no luck. Car run fines and seems to shift cleanly but noise is getting louder and more irritating.

Can hear it from inside and outside the car

Look forward to your advice - I have a reasonably equipped garage at home and try and do what I can on my own (retired)

Mortoni

[vegasjetskier]

Does the pitch of the sound decrease as the transmission shifts up through the gears? If not, it's probably not a transmission issue. Most likely, you have a bearing failing in one of the accessories or one of the idler or tensioner pulleys. How many miles are on the car an when was the timing belt last replaced?

[mortoni]

to Vegasjetskier

Transmission whine seems to be constant when changing up.
How do I tell if it is a tensioner bearing etc

Mortoni

[dcarlson12]

Perhaps try removing the Auxiliaries belt and run engine for a short time. If no whine then would would be in the accessories or tensioner pulley or accessories. If not, have a close listen to the time belt area.

[mortoni]

Removed the accessories belt - engine ticks over quietly as it should.

Had replaced the accessories belt tensioner 3 years ago with a new one? which I bought from the dealership.

Suspected the alternator - removed alternator front bearing - rough when spun by hand - front of rotor shaft badly scored as the pulley nut appears to have been rammed on - there are no threads. The slip rings on the other end of the rotor are beyond trimming down on a lathe.

Economically, will have to try and raise another rotor in good shape.

Any suggestions where I could find one?

Thanks

Mort