97AWDEXPLODER
New Member
- Joined
- April 20, 2007
- Messages
- 7
- Reaction score
- 0
- City, State
- Palatine,IL
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 97' XLT
I have a 97 Ford explorer and I have found the most time effective and best way to replace the upper idler pulley is to 1st take off the serpentine belt with a 15MM ratchet, ( for 5.0L models especially) assuming you have the same metal cooling fan I do bend the corner of the cooling fan blade closest to the pulley twords the radiator then there should be enough clearance to get the bolt and pulley assembly out of the engine compartment without having to break loose the bolts holding the cooling fan on. Apply some red loctite to the bolt reinstall the new idler pulley (approx. $18 at Murray's) take care to take the old washer off the old pulley and reinstall it to the new one!!! bend the corner of the fan blade back to true and re-tension the belt.
DONE wasnt that much easier than taking off the fan and shroud? Enjoy the time you saved!
DONE wasnt that much easier than taking off the fan and shroud? Enjoy the time you saved!
