I live in SD, where it has been pretty cold lately. When I start our 05 T&C, it makes a noise for a few minutes. I think it's coming from the alternator, and it just sounds like a dry bearing. I know these have a decoupling pulley, but I know little about them. Could that cause this noise? My understanding is that they usually get noisy on deceleration, or when shutting off the engine. In my case, the noise is only present until it warms up a bit (maybe 5 min), and then is gone until the next cold start. Thoughts?

They can make a lot of noise.I had a few at the shop that went bad.Real cold could be the problem though.The ones I had would not quiet down.Rocky

yes those decouplers can make noise, the only fix is replace the alt. the decouplers are not serviced. An aftermarket alternator will be a pulley only , no decoupler. doesn't seem to hurt anything.I have replaced dozens for noise on start up. the aftermarket alternators have been just fine.

Just to clarify...you guys think it's the alternator itself, then?

BTW, NAPA has the decoupler separately, but I guess it requires a special tool for R&R. Their alternators also come with the decoupler.

Thanks for the replies!