Can I drive with a noisy tensioner?
Driving with a bad belt tensioner is unsafe since the tensioner is meant to guarantee ample tension that powers accessories. Wear on the belt tensioner will eventually cause the belt to slip, generate loud noise, and also create an unsafe level of heat along the accessory pulleys.
What does a broken belt tensioner sound like?
When the tensioner or tensioner pulley fails, the loss of tension can cause the belt and pulleys to make high-pitched rattling or chirping noises. If the pulley bearing completely fails, it can also cause a squealing or even a grinding noise. Symptom 2: Knocking or slapping.
How much does it cost to replace a belt tensioner?
The average cost for a drive belt tensioner replacement is between $211 and $239. Labor costs are between $73 and $93, while parts are priced between $138 and $146. Taxes and fees are not included in the estimate.
What happens when your tensioner pulley goes out?
Another symptom of a potential problem with the drive belt tensioner is unusual belt wear. If the drive belt tensioner pulley has any sort of issue it can cause unusual and accelerated wear on the belt. A bad pulley can cause fraying on the edges of the belt, and in severe cases can even cause it to break.
How do you know when to replace a belt tensioner?
Appearance: Cycle the tensioner (mounted on the engine) through the entire range of motion (from stop to stop) by applying torque to the arm with a wrench. The tensioner arm should move smoothly and freely. Solution: If you notice a binding, sticking or grinding tensioner arm, the tensioner should be replaced.
What happens if belt tensioner fails?
When a timing belt tensioner fails, it loses tension. As a result, the timing belt becomes loose and the valve timing can be thrown off. This leads to engine performance issues. So if any suspicion arises that the timing belt tensioner has failed, it’s important to check the tensioner and replace it if necessary.
What are the symptoms of a bad belt tensioner?
Rust bleed and cracks. Appearance: Rust is bleeding between arm and base or dripping from the tensioner.
Do I have a bad belt tensioner?
One of the most common symptoms of a failing belt tensioner is unusual noise coming from either the tensioner or the drive belts. If the drive belt noise resembles a squeal or a squeak, it is possible that the belt tensioner is loose. This is especially the case when starting the engine first thing in the morning.
What noise does a bad tensioner pulley make?
When the tensioner or tensioner pulley fails, the loss of tension can cause the belt and pulleys to make high-pitched rattling or chirping noises. If the pulley bearing completely fails, it can also cause a squealing or even a grinding noise. Symptom 2: Knocking or slapping. This can cause a slapping or knocking noise.
How do you release the belt tension at the tensioner?
– Replace any belt guards, cowling — or splash shields to cover bottom of the engine. Thanks! Helpful 2 Not Helpful 4 – You may need a good “third hand” (a serious-minded helper). Thanks! Helpful 2 Not Helpful 6 – Reverse the procedure to reinstall the serpentine belt on the pulley system auto tensioner.