Idler pulley/tensioner squeak
11-10-2008, 11:37 AM
#1
Idler pulley/tensioner squeak Hey gents, I just recently replaced the old and worn belts on my '99 Z28 with some fresh Gatorback belts. Seems like the added grip has manifested itself in an embarrassing squeak from one or both of the idlers.
A while ago I saw *somewhere* a post or article about just replacing the bearings in the idler pullies. I want to check that out (again) as it is a much more practical option that just buying new pullies or an entire tensioner.
I cannot remember where I saw this.
Does anyone have a link?
TIA!
A while ago I saw *somewhere* a post or article about just replacing the bearings in the idler pullies. I want to check that out (again) as it is a much more practical option that just buying new pullies or an entire tensioner.
I cannot remember where I saw this.
Does anyone have a link?
TIA!
11-10-2008, 12:39 PM
#2
TECH Regular
iTrader: (4)
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: The Plywood State
Posts: 492
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The idler pulley I think is only $30 from Autozone if I remember correctly. Real easy install too. It is located right next to the alternator. Just be sure to torque to spec.
11-10-2008, 01:15 PM
#3
Yeah, but I was looking for the article or post that talks about just replacing the bearing. Ie. pop it out and then tap in a new one. Wanted to see if it mentioned the size or a part number etc. so I can order the right ones. I woud rather buy a couple $4-5 bearings than the whole $30 pulley.
11-10-2008, 02:41 PM
#5
Greasing the bearings is hardly ever the answer.
I posted about the bushings in the idler itself (AC idler). Belt squeak is caused buy the idler making the belt crooked.
I tried all the above first, then I fixed the idler bushings and haven't heard a squeak since.
The main idler is around $80 and the AC idler is around $50.
I posted about the bushings in the idler itself (AC idler). Belt squeak is caused buy the idler making the belt crooked.
I tried all the above first, then I fixed the idler bushings and haven't heard a squeak since.
The main idler is around $80 and the AC idler is around $50.
Trending Topics
11-11-2008, 02:53 PM
#11
On The Tree
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: St Petersburg Florida / Murren Switzerland
Posts: 170
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
just an FYI but I replaced my pulleys with Rev Extreme's billet, no more plastic! I also replaced the power steering pulley too, plus the fact it even looks much better. Can't believe that GM uses plastic for things like that. Rev Extremes are priced fair too!
11-12-2008, 10:34 AM
#12
Thanks again for the input guys. I must confess that once I sprayed a little burst of silicone on the belt, the noise vanished. Before I look like a total newb, I have to say that I posted before doing any trouble shooting. Have been really busy lately plus a bout of the flu made it easier to post up for ideas before I got to try any troubleshooting techniques that I would have normally done.
Anyway, since that went way too easy last night I used the extra time to remove the top side idler pulley. I gently removed the seals and found that while the bearings weren't dry, there was very little good grease left. I repacked that one, even adding a little grease to the back side and reinstalled. I'll probably remove the lower one (below PS pulley) and repack it as well this weekend. The car only has 58K miles which is probably why my bearings weren't bone dry like the other poster's.
Anyway, I'll keep an eye on the belt and see if it may need a little dressing or if the dab of silicone was all that was required. It's a Gatorback, but I don't want much silicone on it, could cause even that one to slip.
Anyway, since that went way too easy last night I used the extra time to remove the top side idler pulley. I gently removed the seals and found that while the bearings weren't dry, there was very little good grease left. I repacked that one, even adding a little grease to the back side and reinstalled. I'll probably remove the lower one (below PS pulley) and repack it as well this weekend. The car only has 58K miles which is probably why my bearings weren't bone dry like the other poster's.
Anyway, I'll keep an eye on the belt and see if it may need a little dressing or if the dab of silicone was all that was required. It's a Gatorback, but I don't want much silicone on it, could cause even that one to slip.
