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Is an idler pulley easy to replace?
The new idler pulley replaces the old style of having a separate tensioner pulley. If your belt keeps loosening or even falling off the pulleys, that is a sign that the bearings in the pulley have failed. Fortunately, you can change an idler pulley easily with only a few basic tools.
How long does it take to replace an idler pulley?
If you are doing the job at home, give yourself about four hours to change all the parts. You will need the following tools and parts: Replacement idler pulley.
How do you replace the idler tensioner pulley?
Turn the pulley bolt counterclockwise with a ratchet and a socket. Remove the bolt, the retaining washer and the pulley. Replace the pulley, washer and bolt and tighten to specified torque illustrated in the repair manual. Replace the tensioner in the engine and replace the bolt.
What are the symptoms of a bad idler pulley?
Signs and Symptoms of a Bad Idler Pulley Chattering, Squealing, or Chirping Sound. Corroded Surface. Excessively Loose Idler Pulley. A Bad Idler Pulley May Spin Excessively. Slow to No Spin or Binding.
Can you drive without an idler pulley?
So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises. The car can still run for months or break after a few days.
How much does it cost to replace idler pulley?
The cost to replace the idler pulley of your driver belt will usually be somewhere between $80 and $200. The cost for the new part should only be anywhere from $40 to $90, while the cost of the labor will be anywhere from $40 to $110.
Is idler pulley same as tensioner?
The primary distinction between tensioners and idler pulleys is the presence of an adjustable bolt. Tensioners are positioned on the bolt through mounting. Idler pulleys are not mounted to an adjustable bolt. However, if bearings fail, tensioner and idler pulleys both require replacement.
Should I replace idler pulley and tensioner?
If there is any wobble, squeak, or undue friction, the idler pulley should be replaced. The best way to maximize the idler pulley’s lifespan is to maintain proper tension on the serpentine belt and replace belts with new ones whenever required.
Where is idler pulley located?
Idler Pulley Location The idler pulley and belt are located near the front of the engine. You will see the belt rotating in conjunction with the engine. You can find the idler pulley when you look at the serpentine belt moving on the engine.
Can you replace just the pulley on a tensioner?
The tensioner pulley is on the end of a spring-loaded tensioner. More often than not, just the pulley goes bad on the tensioner, not the whole tensioner, and for most vehicles, you can purchase and replace the pulley instead of the tensioner itself.
How much tension should an idler pulley have?
A general rule of thumb for the correct tightness is being able to twist a belt with a thumb and finger a 1/2 turn and feel resistance. If you can turn it more than a 1/2 turn, you do not have enough tension on the belt. If you cannot turn it a 1/2 turn, you have too much tension on the belt.
How do you know if you need a new idler pulley?
Visual Clues of a Worn Idler Pulley Such wear decreases tension that can cause significant belt slippage. If the pulley or bearing is noticeably damaged, cracking, breaking, seizing, or otherwise coming apart, it is an indication that it requires prompt replacement.
Can a bad idler pulley cause vibration?
Grinding noises – Grinding and rumbling noises are another common sign of tensioner or idler pulley failure, usually due to failing bearings. Excessive tensioner movement – Worn-out coil springs can also cause drive belt tensioners to loosen their grip on the drive belt, resulting in excessive vibration and rattling.
Can a bad idler pulley cause misfire?
As far as I know, nothing that has anything to do with the idler pulley could cause the engine to misfire. It’s just too much coincidence that something else would go bad immediately after this repair.
What is the function of idler pulley?
The idler pulley is a common part that’s found on the majority of the vehicles on the road. Its primary function is to provide tension and guide the engine drive belt. These belts wrap around the various parts of the engine such as the power steering pump, alternator, water pump etcDec 28, 2018.
What happens if tensioner pulley breaks?
When the tensioner or tensioner pulley fails, the loss of tension can cause the belt and pulleys to make high-pitched rattling or chirping noises. If the pulley bearing completely fails, it can also cause a squealing or even a grinding noise. Symptom 2: Knocking or slapping. This can cause a slapping or knocking noise.
How long do tensioner pulleys last?
You should expect to replace your belt tensioner in the 40,000-70,000 mile range. It is also customary to swap more than one part simultaneously, usually a worn-out pulley from other systems and even the serpentine belt itself.
