I have a 1971 Dart Swinger with a 318. It makes a terrible screeching sound with the engine running. The noise increases as rpms increase. Sometimes the noise lessens as the car "warms up", but seems to be getting worse as time goes by (it's been doing this for about 3 years (~800 miles a year (summer cruiser))).

I've wiggled the water pump to see if there is any "play" in it. It feels OK.

Could the screeching sound be from the alternator? Maybe bad bearings? Any way to lubricate the bearings?

Any other ideas?