An idler pulley is a metal or plastic pulley that is used to move the car’s gears. If the idler pulley fails, it can cause your car to lose its speed and may even fall off the road. A failing idler pulley can also cause your car to smell bad, make noise, or have other problems. To replace an idler pulley, you will need to know where it is and what type of replacement it is. You can also check for signs of a failing idler pulley by driving your car around and seeing if it loses its speed or makes any other strange noises.
What is an Idler Pulley?
An idler pulley is a machine found in vehicles that is used to create tension on the engine drive belt. It is called an idler pulley because when compared to other pulleys, it is not driven by a shaft or motor. Instead, it idles on bearings that can wear out if the idler pulley is made from plastic. They also produce a clutching action.
Where is the Idler Pulley Located in the Car?
The idler pulley is a belt that rotates around the engine. You can see it in action when you look at the serpentine belt moving on the engine.
Types of an Idler Pulley
There are different types and varieties of the idler pulley, each with its own unique benefits. Some are more efficient than others, depending on the application. ..
Industrial idler pulley: an industrial pulley is a pulley on a shaft that is situated on or presses against the drive belt that provides guidance or takes up loose.Metric idler pulley: this is a type of idler pulley system that helps in the connection of distant points through an idler pulley.
There are a variety of idler pulleys designed in different styles, with some being designed for strength and durability and others being designed to prevent groove deformation or rubbing against flanges. ..
The function of an Idler Pulley
An idler pulley is a guide or protection to the engine drive belt and provides tension to the engine drive belt of your vehicle.
What Happens if an Idler Pulley Fails
A failed idler pulley can lead to the belt falling off the engine, or in a more severe case can quickly develop faults such as stalling and overheating.
Signs of a Failing or Bad Idler Pulley
-The idler pulley is not spinning as fast as it should. -The belt is slipping off the pulley. -The pulley is making strange noises. ..
The squealing sound coming from your car is excessive or too much spinning of the idler pulley. The surface corrosion on the idler pulley is excessive and it’s not binding. The slack idler pulley is causing the problem.
How to Replace an Idler Pulley
If you want to replace the idler pulley on your own, you can do so by following these steps:
Locate the idler pulley on your car.
Remove the bolts that hold it in place.
Lift the idler pulley off of the car and replace it with a new one. ..
Remove the idler pulley from your bike.
Take off the screws that hold it in place.
Disconnect the cables that run from the pulley to your bike.
Take off the old idler pulley and replace it with the new one.
Remove the belt from the idler pulley Lift the idler pulley off of the engine. Thread the idler pulley onto the new belt. Tighten the bolts to 40 lbs.
How much does an Idler Pulley Replacement Cost?
Replacing your idler pulley can cost you a lot of money. The cost of a new idler pulley can range from $40 to $190, while the cost for labor is about $40 to $110.
Conclusion
If you notice any noise, wobble, or friction from your idler pulley, it may be time to replace it. Maintaining proper tension on the serpentine belt will help keep your engines running smoothly. When belts need to be replaced, make sure to get new ones that are specifically designed for your vehicle. ..
Can you drive your car with a bad idler pulley?
The idler pulley on your car is not safe to use. Replace it immediately.
The average person can drive for about 150 miles with a bad idler pulley.
Your car’s performance might drop when you drive with a bad idler pulley.
