Whining noise from front of engine

[jnicks01]

99 Tahoe LT 4x4 5.7L

I've just turned 160K miles and have recently been hearing a whining noise coming from what seems to be the front of the engine. I replaced my alternator about 30K ago, so I don't think it is that. The noise seems to be coming from lower in the engine. It seems to be most noticable when the engine is cold, and goes away after warmed up, but not always. I guess my question is could this be a water pump going out and I'm hearing a bad bearing? Has anyone had this same noise?

Is replacing the water pump difficult. I'm pretty handy.

Thanks!!!!

 

[NoEcm]

1996 Tahoe LT 5.7L 80k

Have the same whine when cold. Drive for a couple of miles and the whine will disappear.

Replaced the lower intake manifold gasket a month ago. Installed a new water pump at the same time but the whine is still there.

In my case I suspect that it is the alternator. When I get ambitious, I'll swap alternators with my Suburban and see if the whine moves from the Tahoe to the Suburban.

 

[Old Goat]

Use an old piece of water hose as a one ear stethoscope, and you should be able to pinpoint it.

 

[96ProCompTahoe]

had the same problem, ended up being the fan clutch was going bad. that was after a new altinator and tensioner.

 

[LAP TOP GAMER]

Me thinks water pump.

 

[qlc1964]

or you can use a wood stick,broom handle or a paint hande stick to
pin point the whinning .just be careful of the moving parts.

 

[96ProCompTahoe]

or you can just go buy an automotive stethescope (sp?)

 

[Black96]

use a 3/8 exstension with a socket on it to listen into!