Which bearing is going tits on me?
 

I've noticed a constant squeeling noise at idle, thought it might be a belt as at first it sounded like it was coming from the hydraulic pump, changed the belts today and now realize it's coming from the transmission housing, or that general area.

It is constant, clutch in, clutch out, in gear, out of gear, noise is there. Pilot bearing? Bad pressure plate maybe? I have no idea. Doesn't sound cheap nor fun to fix though :(

oh, and
 

what is the end result if I continue to drive on it? bad idea? or not a problem?

Try pulling the dipstick, if it goes away, it's the rear main seal.

Reeeeeeally? interesting, I'll give it a shot thanks!

2nd that.
 

I had the same noise. Suspected the throwout bearing but noise didn't go up in pitch with rpms.
Since I vented the crankcase to atmosphere, there has been no return of that noise.

Re: 2nd that.
 

naturally it wasn't whining when I got to work tonight to check it. I should have mentioned it doesn't whine right away but usually after a short drive.

As a side note, how did you VTA the crank? Just put in sort of checkvalve or...?

Re: 2nd that.
 

No check valve (PCV) as of yet.
I plugged up the air boot port with a rubber stopper. And plumbed a 12' 3/4" heater hose from the engine to the rear of the car, by the subframe.
Eventually, I will fab an oil separator can with a PCV valve. This way I can switch back to 'stock' when I get the car inspected, then return to my preferred venting. As of now, there's nothing stopping reverse flow of air. I should plug a PCV valve on there for now.

Re: 2nd that.
 

Seemed to make a difference, it's tough because the squeel always stops RIGHT when I want to pop the hood.
Car doesn't run well without the dipstick inserted.

That's good (last sentence), meaning you have no leaks and it's tuned to that.

Re: 2nd that.
 

Try this temporary test....

locate the crankcase hose where it plugs into the back of the air boot. pull it off and plug the opening with some appropriate plug.
Now, the engine won't stall due to the dipstick/oil cap.
Drive the car for a few hours to see if the noise goes away. I bet it does.

The gases will just expell into the engine bay for now, as long as you are at highway speed, you shouldn't smell much.