Temp remove the alternator belt. Has the horrible noise stopped?

I will be doing this over the weekend buddy. I'll report my findings with you all.

I dont suppose if you guys know if it's straight forward enough to change the bearing in the pulley or is it just as easy/cheap (cost of tools etc) to buy a recon'd item?

Hope you get to the bottom of your problems, don't like reading this about these cars as they can give you loads of fun when needed and economy in one car. Happy driving.

I know many people who've had these motors and loved them. I think I just hit unlucky with this one. Looked promising at purchase especially with all the receipts for the car but I suppose you always have to rely on the honesty of the seller......

Totally agree with you, I took a gamble buying mine with 115k on it with no history from 76k, got the belts and pump done straight away, would have had it 4 yrs next feb, planning for belt change, now got 152k on her. Changed a couple of bits from turbo recently to calipers and normal wear and tear items. Been spoilt with performance and economy in one, brim fill got me 585miles good run up to Scotland last year.