Hi

Upon starting my es250 1990 when cold there is a loud screeching noise that
remains for a few minutes until things warm up.    It is hard to pinpoint
where the sound is coming from as you can hear it all over the engine
compartment.

However I think it is the power steering pump.  The should changes pitch as
you turn the steering wheel.  When warmed up the sound is 95% gone..

I have read that the Lexus LS400 pumps fail alot but this car is a ES250.

I am not leaking power steering fluid.

Could one say that since the sounds goes away when it is warm and that there
is no power steering fuild being lost that it is the belt?

Also where is it located?  I can't seem to see it.  I traced the hoses from
the ps fluid resoviour but they disappear behind the the back of the engine
towards he firewall.  THere is a black plastic cover on he right side of the
engine in the area of the alternator belt, is it behind that ??

Thanks
James