timing belts

[astraman]

I have an 1999 astra which has been making a whining noise from the engine compartment.The noise seems to be coming from the timing belt area although i cant be a hundred percent sure.I know it is due in a few miles time a timing belt change but dont want to spend the money getting the timing belt changed only to find out i need a power steering pump or something much more expensive.Anyone have any insight on astras advice much appreciated.

[Panic Button]

Probably the alternator belt slipping. On earlier ones they are particularly hard to tighten , and loosen off easily after a while. They then tend to slip, at first when it is wet, but eventually all the time.
Later models had a grooved belt which gripped better.
When it squeals try knocking off the heated rear window, and even main beam for a moment to reduce drain on the alternator. If the squeal stops, it confirms it is the belt.

[woodchopper]

If memory serves correct - the timing belt also drives the water pump as well.
To eliminate the alternator remove the drive belt for it temporarily - if the whining is still there it is not the alternator. If it was the alternator belt slipping it would be more of a squeal rather than a whine which to me sounds like a bearing failing which is why i said the water pump.
One old fashioned way to listen to a component to was to place the metal end of a very long screwdriver on the component you suspected was making the noise
( keeping the screwdriver away from drive belts !! ) and put your ear to the handle and it would amplify rather the sound like a stethoscope.
If the water pump bearing fails it will cause the timing belt to jump/slip which will damage the engine.
Get it checked out.

[Panic Button]

You are right. It would be a squeal.