Ive had this car for just over a month. The air pump has always had a slight squeak once in a while. I just thought it was the bearings. I may have added to the problem by adding too much tension when I replaced all the belts. After about 3 weeks, it began squealing more. I took off the belt to see if it was the source of the noise. It was indeed the culprit. I took it out and drove it some without the belt. Everything appeared to be the same. Is the air pump similar to a supercharger when it is forcing air into the engine? Would it hurt the car running with out the belt on? Due to the age, do you think that there is any benefit of the air pump until I replace it or rebuild it? Thanks

J.Wigton

This is one of the first emission control devices, pumps air into exhaust to burn unburnt fuel going into catalyst. Has no other purpose on this model car.

If your state or location has a smog emission inspection program, your car more likely then not is old enough to be exempt. The belt tension is important not to overtighten, so as to not damage the bearing, and normally the air pump can be more on the loose side than say a power steering or alternator or ac belt. But no belt should be over tightened.....

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Thanks for all of the replies. I feel a lot better knowing that I can just take the belt off and wait until I have the time and $$ to get it fixed.