slight whine at low revs

Hi all,

Am looking for some input on a noise I can hear when I am starting to move from a stop and at low speed. To me it sounds identical to when the power steering fluid is starting to get low but I topped it up and the sound is still there. My Taco has 85000 kms on it but I shouldn't have to replace any belts or anything yet should I? Thanks for any help.

 

The sound is coming from the front...middle...or rear of the truck?

 

Looks to be coming from the front, it is relatively subtle but now my truck sounds more like a Ford

 

it could be the alternator. my moms car had the same whine and it turned out to be the alternator.

 

You mean a supercharger?

 

Does the sound get louder as you turn the steering wheel.....especially when the truck is not moving (more strain on the pump when it's parked)? The pump for the power steering can be bad even if it's full.

 

I have that same noise. When I turn the wheel, it makes no difference. I'm thinking the alternator is a good bet.

 

Well? Update KRich?

 

One of the pulley bearings most likely. Its a common problem with the truck. Easy fix!

 

Thanks for the input guys! I did realize today that it is present all the time even when not in gear and does get more pronounced as I rev up the engine (only to a certain subtle level as the general engine noise overpowers it fairly quickly).
I do have an amp and modest stereo installed but I was fairly sure that my TRD Sport had the upgraded alternator so I hope that wouldn't be going yet. Happy to hear that it is an easy fix if it's a pulley bearing.
Anyhow I probably won't get a firm diagnosis or repair in the near future as I just got brand new 285/70/17 BFG A/T's installed today and have to let my bank account cool down for a bit

 

Pull the belt off and spin every pulley by hand, if any of them make noise, replace. Or leave and at least you know what is wrong.

Takes like 15 minutes.

 

Most likely this....

Did my idlers last year. Rock Auto had the best price.

 

Oh and if it is an pulley bearing going south, you'll know. It'll get louder as it gets worse until you think you do have a supercharger. It was actually kinda fun for the couple days mine got really loud.

 

Was just wondering what a reasonable charge would be for the dealership to fix one of the pulleys? I know I should learn how to do it myself but I have a young child at home and time is not easily available.

 

bump

Anyone had to get this fixed at the dealership?

 

I just had two fixed 2 days ago 280 dollars total one was 89 the other was 97 plus labor lucky mine was under warranty Much cheaper online.

 

Thanks for the heads up, just wanted to know the ballpark so the dealership wouldn't try to bend me over too much!

 

Just noticed you have an 06 and you managed to get it done under warranty?

 

Yea my truck came with extended warranty From previous Owner total bill was 920 bucks with a new lower steering shaft crazy dealer prices