Belts tensioner and things that spin - United Bimmer Community

**akinthecat** · 01-31-2007, 08:21 AM

how long should the belt tensioner last? I had the belt tensioner replaced bout a year ago. My mechanic thinks i need to change it again when the belts making this 'squek squek' sound. belts are brand new

Been raining here like noah, so there been a lot of water splashed up into the engine bay. Is it dirt or gunk in the tensioner seals? I don't have a spare one in hand

**Dudesky** · 01-31-2007, 08:47 AM

That sounds more like the roller bearings on the pulley than the tensioner itself. Depending on how yours is set up, you may only need a new pulley.

**akinthecat** · 01-31-2007, 08:58 AM

there are 3 pulley bearings. metal shielded bearings. is it an easy job to replace them myself ( i have a shop), just ain't got the time. are the belts good to go, even u need to reinstall them again?

**Dudesky** · 01-31-2007, 09:07 AM

I don't know what metal shield bearings are, but the pulleys are simple to remove and install- just use a hex key (8mm, if I remember correctly) in the center after you pop off the plastic center cover. Then reattaching the belts are easy too- just remember the big one goes on first, then the small one for the AC.

**akinthecat** · 01-31-2007, 09:11 AM

8mm ? for all the pulleys? sounds like a weekend project for me.

**Numark318i** · 01-31-2007, 11:41 AM

before you take the pulley apart...try to clean off the pullies with brake cleaner and a piece of sand paper(250 + grit)

brother in law works at a dealership, he says dirty pullies are the problem most of the time, or bad belts but u said u replaced them.

**akinthecat** · 01-31-2007, 11:11 PM

brake cleaner i got. Sandpaper will get. thanks