Where is the idler pulley located?

The idler pulley is found underneath the drum on the right side of your appliance. As you are reaching under the drum, grab the idler pulley and push down to take the dryer belt off the pulley and the motor shaft. Stand back up, and use the belt to slowly guide the drum out of the dryer.

What are the symptoms of a bad idler pulley?

Without a belt, stalling and overheating of the engine become commonplace. For auditory cues, squealing noise from the engine belt can be a tell-tale sign. As the pulley wears, the engine belt may squeal as it rubs against the surface of the pulley. The issue will worsen with time.

What does it sound like when an idler pulley goes bad?

Squealing. When the engine is idling, a bad pulley may make a squealing sound. This is due to the bearings in the pulley going bad. The bearings may also make various other sounds such as clattering or even a rumbling sound, making the vehicle sound as if there was much more wrong than a bad pulley.

How do I change the lower idler pulley?

Loosen the bolt and push the pulley toward the center of the engine to relieve the tension on the belt. Slide the belt off the idler pulley. Hold the idler pulley so it cannot turn and loosen the center bolt with a socket wrench. Remove the bolt completely and pull the idler pulley from the engine.

Can I drive with a bad idler pulley?

So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises. The car can still run for months or break after a few days.

Is it hard to replace idler pulley?

If the idler pulley no longer functions as it should and you continue to drive, it is almost certain there will be damage to the belt. Thankfully, it is possible for DIYers to replace the idler pulley with the proper tools and guidance.

How do I know if my idler pulley or tensioner pulley is bad?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Idler Pulley

1. Visibly worn pulleys. One of the first symptoms of an issue with an idler pulley is visible wear on the pulley.
2. Belt squealing. Another common symptom of a possible issue with the idler pulley is squealing from the engine belts.
3. Damaged bearing or pulley.

How long can you drive with a bad idler pulley?

What happens when a pulley goes bad?

A broken or seized pulley can quickly lead to a torn belt, or in less serious cases, the belt falling off of the engine. An engine without a belt can quickly run into issues such as overheating and stalling, as it’s the drive belt that allows the engine accessories to function.

How much does it cost to replace idler pulley?

The Best in Auto Repair The average cost for drive belt idler pulley replacement is between $137 and $152. Labor costs are estimated between $61 and $77 while parts are priced at $76. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location.

Why is my idler pulley bolt coming off?

Seems the cup washer/dust shield on the original bolt just hits the inner rim of the pulley where the bearing is seated. When the belt turns the pulley, the washer/dust shield also turns and the bolt loosens. Additional engine vibrations keeps letting the bolt loosen to the point where the pulley comes loose and the belt slips off.

How to change the idler pulleys on a Chevy Venture Van?

This is a step by step instructional video on how to change the belt, idler pulley bearing, and spring loaded tensioner on a Chevy Venture Van. It includes the complete process from beginning to end with troubleshooting the location of the squealing bearing. Loading…

What kind of bolt do I need for the idler pulley?

What size bolt do I need for the idler pulley? The bolt size is 10mm 1.5 thread pitch here is a video of an idler pulley being replaced on a similar car the process is the same. helpful? Bad idler pulley–Bearing actually fell apart when I was investigating a noise under the hood.

What causes a pulley in a car to squeak?

Learn how to fix a squeaky pulley in your car. The serpentine belt in your car powers the accessories such as air conditioning, power steering, the alternator, and waterpump. Pulley wear will cause your pulley to squeak. A worn out pulley bearing or a worn spring in the tension pulley can also cause squeaking.