lound noise when stepping on gas

2002 Escape just out of warranty. Can someone help when i step on the gas a screeching noise comes from the engine only happens when I step on the accelerator, and put pressure on the motor. Thought it was the belt or power steering and it wasnt. any one have a clue?

Well, I think this should be a recall issue. I have the same problem on my '02 XLT Escape. I was positve it was the belt, pully or somthing in that area. Come to find out when I took it to a dealer, they told me that one exaust manifold converter was plugged causing back pressure. The exaust as no where to go except back to the engine or through the seal which is causing the squealing and very noticable power lose. Have someone take a pressure reader (or whatever it is called) to test. The part is costing me $447.60, seal is $15.18, and around 3 hours of labor. Hopfully this isn't your problem. Do you hear a noise like air leaking somewhere like on mine? Please let me know if you found something else.