Replacing the idler pulley assembly (for the serpentine belt)

[Stumpgrinder]

Replacing the tensioner pulley assembly (for the serpentine belt)

Hi,

I have a 96 XLT with the 4.0 V6. I just noticed that the idler arm that holds the serpentine belt tensioner pulley is crooked at the pivot point. I dont have another V6 handy to compare it to but it sure looks like its about half way to letting go.

Has anyone ever replaced one of these, and can you do it with the cooling fan still in place? It looks like you might be able to get it out by just removing the air intake snorkel.

Thanks!

Russ

 

[MONMIX]

It will be WAY easier with the fan, and shroud out of the way, but it is not a necessity.

 

[Stumpgrinder]

Thanks for the reply,

Next question: Can the shroud & fan be removed without yanking the radiator? I really dont want to get into all that if possible...

Thanks again!

 

[BuffaloXplorer]

I wouldn't mess with the trying to get the fan out of the way. I had the same prob in my 96 and just went to it with a stubby 3/8" ratchet ($15 or so @ Sears)...or just grind off the excess from a standard length unit. Take the air intake tube off of the housing and twist it out of the way. The fan IS in the way but with the right tools everything is easier.

 

[Bronco638]

Jesus Russ, stop whining and get out there and do it.

I've got very little going on this weekend. Call if you need help.

 

[Stumpgrinder]

Oh Christ busted by Bronco!

Thanks for the all the ideas. Turns out it was very easy. I pulled the air filter cover off and moved the snorkel out of the way like BuffaloXplorer said. My standard craftsman ratchet with a 1.5" deep socket fit in there and I had the new one installed in 15 minutes, plus a new belt. The fact that the fan blades are flexible helped, if were metal it would have been more of a challenge.

Thanks again everone!