How to buy a good quality tensioner
The intermediate pulley system drives the vehicle's alternator and is part of the belt and pulley system, which also covers the power steering, air compressor, and other devices. A pulley is needed; with all the important equipment it keeps moving around, it would be very detrimental to the car if that particular part were to fail. However, this pulley wears out and when it does, it should be replaced immediately.
You should frequently inspect the surface of the idler pulley for damage and wear, and be sure to lubricate it. If the idler pulley is damaged, the movement of the belt to the crankshaft can become intermittent, causing engine malfunction and even causing an accident if the driver loses control of the vehicle.
Some precautions to consider when buying a tensioner pulley:
Size: When choosing a new idler pulley, keep the required dimensions in mind. Manufacturers make pulleys in a wide variety of sizes, so you will need to measure the width as well as the thickness of your vehicle's belt drive. If the pulley is too wide, it may cause excessive stress; while a small pulley won't power everything that's needed.
Durability: Pulleys are under a lot of stress, and in order to handle the load, you need to find an incredibly strong part - preferably with flanges for added strength.
Quality: Some brand name idler pulleys are one piece, without flanges and can be as strong as flanged pulleys.
Pulley options: Keeping the belt on the pulley can be tricky, so some pulleys have friction grooves to keep the belt in place. Others have a slightly raised edge like a guard to help hold the pulley in place.
AvtoTachki supplies high quality idlers to our certified field technicians. We can also install your purchased idler pulley. Click here for a quote and more information on replacing the idler pulley.
