Replacing an Idler Pulley

[DC Quick]

Okay, I have some questions about replacing an idler pulley. The part only cost 25-35 dollars max. But replacing it, how hard is it? I also have to put the belt back on. I'd rather do this myself, but if it's harder than it seems. I might as well just get a mechanic to do it.

 

[Willard]

It's fairly simple, I think all you would have to remove is the intake duct, which is easy. You just loosen the bolt holding the old one on and bolt the new pulley on. If you've ever done any basic vehicle work, this should be cake. Even if you haven't, it's doable.

 

[DC Quick]

Thank you. But I also have one more question. When the pulley went, the power steering also went out with it. So if I replace the pulley, should the power steering be working again?

 

[Willard]

Well, if the belt stopped moving because of the pulley, then yes, the power steering will work again. Otherwise, there may be something else up with the power steering pump.

 

[DC Quick]

Alright. Thank you devilboy. Much appreciated.

 

[rumpledoll]

I've been chasing a squeak somewhere from my serpentine belt on my 2002 Explorer so I just had my idler pulley off to examine it (mine was fine). On my V6 explorer the belt drives the alternator for electric power, the power steering pump, the air conditioner compressor and the fan/water pump.

In order to replace the pulley you have to relieve tension on the belt (since yours is broken, the belt may already have no tensions - depends on how badly the pulley broke). The tension arm has a socket for a 3/8" square ratchet. You put push on the ratchet to compress the inner spring on the tension arm with one hand and slip the belt off any pulley/accessory you an reach with the other. On my 2002 explorer this was easiest lying on my back under the car.

Once you have the belt off you might as well replace it with a new one, they are fairly cheap. The idler pulley is held in place with one bolt (was it 15mm? I forget). Remove the bolt and pulley comes free. Attach the new pulley, loop the belt through all the accessories as indicated by the diagram above the fan (at least that's where it is on my 2002) get back under the car and compress the tension arm and loop the belt in the various pulleys. That last bit can be a bit of a pain, but it is not too hard.

Rumple

... how hard is it? I also have to put the belt back on. I'd rather do this myself.

 

[Willard]

You don't have to go under the car on a first gen....completely different setup, and from the sounds of it, much easier to work on.