I have a '90 302 and it has been whining in direct proportion to RPM. I.E. The higher the RPM the higher the pitch of the whine. Engine sounds sorta week at a stand-still too. Thanks for your help!

 

Mine did that when the bearings in the idler pulley were going bad.

 

That is a good one to happen always and is more than likely the problem.

 

Spray oil on the idler pully. if the sound stops replace it

 

IT COULD ALSO BE THE BEARINGS in the alternator. just another thought.or how about low fluid level in the power steering pump. this is where i would start.

 

Classic Ford truck power steering pump noise.

Jim

 

Use process of elimination. First oil those idler pulleys. I thought it was the alternator until I did just that. If you can, get a stethescope (like those auto techs use) and listen to the power steering pump, if it grinds internally then the internal bearing is shot. As for the alternator, you would be able to hear where the noise is coming from and be able to know it is the alt. If it is the idler pulleys, they run about $25 at your local auto parts store.

 

It WAS a bearing in the alternator. Applewood Service Center in Golden, CO warrantied the part and charged nothing for labor! Great guys. Thanks for the help.