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Old Nov 3, 2013 | 06:47 PM
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Idler question

Hi guys

Quick question, I can hear a hum from my idler pulley on the passenger side. I am going to replace ASAP but should I do the tensioner and the other idler as well?

I now have 270,000 miles on my 97 E-150 5.4L
 
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Old Nov 3, 2013 | 08:31 PM
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Do the idler first and see if the noise goes away. They're pretty cheap and easy to do. Just a single bolt that retains it to the bracket on most. (or at least they are on the 5.0/5.8
 
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Old Nov 4, 2013 | 06:16 AM
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I'd definitely swap out the tensioner too---have seen them for $20 new before but I'd opt for something better, OEM or NAPA or any good brand name.

Probably needless to recommend replacing the belt too---not quite "cheap" at $50 something but since you're already in there anyway..........!
 
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Old Nov 4, 2013 | 07:13 AM
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Should I replace the entire tensioner or just the pulley?
 
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Old Nov 4, 2013 | 10:04 AM
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I had a similar noise on a 351, that turned out to be the Alternator making the noise, after changing the idler pulley.
 
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Old Nov 7, 2013 | 08:03 AM
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I just changed the alternator for just that reason! It is showing wear on the bearing but I should have checked the idlers while I was in there.
 
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Old Nov 7, 2013 | 10:13 AM
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Originally Posted by PStruwing
Should I replace the entire tensioner or just the pulley?
I don't think the pulley is available separately from the tensioner.

With the belt removed maybe turn each idler pulley as well as the alternator and tensioner too----anything wearing out should present itself by feel or a noise you can hear.

Were it me I'd just swap the entire tensioner. This way I'd know it was more likely to hold tension and not be an issue for a while yet. If the existing 270K miles is on the OEM tensioner I'd say that's quite a run, not a bit shocked it might be in need of a new on now.
 
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