Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Tensioner pulley removal

[RKonshuk]

Newbe Needs to replace the tensioner pulley, noisey bearing. What type bolt holds the pulley in place and what tool do you use to remove it? Is it a torx T50.

 

[96ram]

I used a nice big breaker bar and it required very little effort. I replaced the belt at the same time being really careful it was aligned/seated properly before starting up. I'm a newbie too and it was a simple fix. Shop around for the new pulley. It made a huge difference up here in canada. I don't know if they can sell you just the bearing... .

 

[RKonshuk]

Got the idler pulley off, the original problem was enough room to get 3/8 socket type T50 torx and breaker bar between the pulley bolt and the lower radiator hose. Ended up cutting the 3/8 torx down by about 1/2" and this worked well. Looks like replacing the entire assembly would be one big pain.

 

[jrobinson2]

Removing the tensioner is easy, just one bolt in the center, it comes of as a complete assembly

 

[radixr]

Just the bearings.

If you replace the pulley with an aftermarket cast iron one, the bearings are replacable in the event they go bad again.