OK, we just got our first Camaro this weekend. Had to drive it back from IL to MN (475 miles), broke a fan belt on the way, but fixed it, no other problems. Then today, drove it a couple of miles and loud whining started when I was accelerting around 50mph. It sounded like when the blower motor is going out on the heater, but that wasn't on. It did not stop until I shut the car off. No noticeable performance issues, an no engine lights or anyhting went on. The tranny fluid was leaking a little, but I checked the fluid levels and the were OK. We have never done a restore job or had a Camaro before so I don't know where to start. Any clues would be EXTREMELY helpful. Thanks!

Sounds like it could be the water pump bearings or the PS pump/bearings.

The water pump is up front by the fan right? It sounded closer to the back. I'm not familiar with PS pump, what is that/where is it?
Thanks!

OK, I displayed just how new at this I am, huh? Power Steering pump... I'll check it out.

If it is bearing noise you may characterise the noise as more of a growly squeak- and if you wan't to be dead sure - place a thin metal rod (stethoscope or even a long screwdriver) onto the casing of the water or PS pump and listen at the end of the metal - it will amplify the noise for you and help you locate it.

Breaking a fan belt might tie into the pumps though ... one or both of them having more than ordinary resistance due to bad bearings.. *shrug* could be.

wonder if you have the new belt too loose and it is just slipping

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1981 Camaro Coupe
402 auto.

OK, the belts are OK, the sound isn't coming from the front of the engine where both of the pumps are. It seems to be coming from back near the a/c stuff (which is not hooked up), almost under the frame near the passenger side...? The sound is really loud. I started the car twice, the first time it made the sound, the second time it didn't. I think maybe my husband bumped the starter switch while he was driving, would that make that kind of a sound, it wasn't like if you hold the starter too long, but I have a thought that he may have bumped it on while he was driving, since it is right by his knee, but he doesn't know for sure. Could that be a possibility?

HI! Another Minnesota member! Welcome. http://www.nastyz28.com/ubb/wink.gif

Sounds like a blower motor to me. It's the only thing I can think of in the area you describe. Does it make any noise if you just turn the key to the accessory position and don't start the car?

[Sarcastic humor ON]
Keep your fingers crossed that you don't need any replacement Z28 parts for your 76 because GM used all the left over 75-76 Z28 parts on the 83 'Vette.
http://www.nastyz28.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif [/Sarcastic humor OFF]

No, it's only when the car is on, but the heater isn't on (we tried that and that makes a similar noise but from the other side and stops when you turn it off). But it comes from the rear left of the engine.