94 Explorer Belt Tensioner

[Route66]

Hey All

I just had my 94 exploder at a local auto shop to give it a once over and let me know what kind of repairs might be needed since i just bought it...the only major one that is needed rather soon they said was the belt tensioner since they say its swaying/shaking (but im not hearing any squeeking yet). However, they wanted $150 to swap it out..which seems outrageous considering they want $70 for the part...
So, im thinking about just doing it myself...and everythings i've read from searching these forums say its super easy...
On the 94 explorer to remove the tensioner...do I just basically need to go underneth the truck, and remove the one bolt on the center of the tensioner...pull it out, replace, re-run the belt (or most likely replace), and replace the one bolt? Or can I access the tensioner from the top? Sorry for all the novice questions...couldnt find a good walk thru/howto and the Exploder Haynes Manual has nothing that I could find in it for the topic....

 

[Blacksheep Josh]

Yeah, you can get to it form the top WAY easier then the bottom. In fact, you'd have to have some long and flexible as hell arms to get at it from the bottom.

The only thing to do to access it, is to remove the airbox/intake tube (It says Caution: Hot or Caution:Fan). You can loosen it using a flathead screwdriver adn just twist it off. If in doubt, just take a few pictures for reference.

 

[gman1234]

I did mine earlier this year. I didn't even replace the whole bracket, just bought a pulley and bearing rebuild set for like 50 bucks. 2 bolts and 15 minutes solved the noise mine was making. Sounded like a peppermill spinning around. Anyways that quote for that work is a rip off IMO.

 

[Maniak]

When we replaced ours during the engine rebuild I just went to a bearing shop, knocked out the old bearing.. paid $7 for a new one.. tapped it in (put some gorilla snot around it to help hold it) and its been on for 27k miles so far..

~Mark

 

[MikeLitt3810]

a digital cam is a good friend to have around when you are unsure. it's not to bad of a task and shouldn't take ya too much time. i'd replace the whole unit. just b/c of the spring. it's been a while since i had to swap one out.