mannetti21

iTrader: (3)

In the process of doing my alternator now, shroud is removed, splash guard removed, AC compressor bolts loosened but I'm stuck on the 14mm bolt on the idler puller.

It's not budging at all. I hammered it pretty well, drenched it in WD-40, and spent a half hour trying but its not moving. The bolt is starting to get slightly rounded and I can feel an "oh ****" moment in the making. Getting real pissed so I figured I'd come inside and take a break. Anyone have any suggestions?

mannetti21

iTrader: (3)

Finally that SOB came loose after letting it sit in WD-40 for an hour. Got quite a bit on the belt though, hopefully it won't cause any slipping when this is done...moving on now

djfrestyl

iTrader: (89)

Don't put that one back on. It's known to be a very soft nut. Get a replacement.

Lontar1

iTrader: (5)

Best write-up ever for Alternator replacement up with pics....

http://www.motorvate.ca/mvp.php/500

mannetti21

iTrader: (3)

Well, got the idler pulley bolt off using my jack handle as a breaker bar. Breaker bar for a brass not on a pulley?

Next I went to loosen the drive belt tensioner and sure enough, "Oh $hit"...


Busted finger and "insert choice 4 letter word here"


Things after that went pretty smooth. Spent less than 5 mins maneuvering the alternator...I turned the lower radiator hose up and towards the driver side which helped alot with space.

Everything is installed back into the car, just need to get a new drive belt tensioner, and might as well get a new belt as well. Anyone know a part #, or know where I can go for the tensioner? Trying to avoid the dealership but I have a feeling they might be the only one to have it.

djfrestyl

iTrader: (89)

Junkyard?

williamgd2

Call Dave B He will give you a good price.Junk yard you will probably have the same problem getting it off and really screwing up your finger.

mannetti21

iTrader: (3)

Anyone have any idea how much they cost? For the size of it I'm hoping under $30

djfrestyl

iTrader: (89)

I would imagine it would be under $30.

SuperStasiu

iTrader: (3)

i think i paid like 40 for mine

mannetti21

iTrader: (3)

jesus christ, I love how nissan can make something and sell it for like 500% profit

MaxSE2001

iTrader: (1)

that broke on me too and i remembering paying less than $15... at dealer

mannetti21

iTrader: (3)

Now thats what I like to hear. I didn't spend 2.5hrs installing to go and blow $40 on a broken bolt. Either way, I guess its better than paying for the labor bc I'm sure they would have broken it as well and then charged me extra.

Do you remember if they had it in stock or did you have to order it?

mannetti21

iTrader: (3)

I also lost some coolant when disconnecting the hose, maybe a 1/2 pint...I can simply add the approximate amount of new coolant back to the reservoir, correct? No need to completely drain and fill?

djfrestyl

iTrader: (89)

Yea, you should be fine just filling it back up at the reservoir. Or, if the engine is cold, at the radiator cap. Over time your cooling system should burp out any air through the reservoir tank anyway.

mannetti21

iTrader: (3)

What are the symptoms of a drive belt that is too tight vs. too loose?

Somehow my tensioner loosened up and was rattling around, but I think the pulley stayed in place. Just wondering what types of things I should be keeping an eye/ear out for if the idler pulley has moved out of place.

MaxSE2001

iTrader: (1)

i had to order it but it came 2 days not bad