Engine Belt Removal, broken idler pulley assembly

NWEAVER1982

MEMBER
2005 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
2.7L
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
96,000 MILES

After some research, I believe I have cracked the "idler pulley assembly". Normally you put a 3/8" ratchet into the assembly and rotate clockwise to remove the belt tension for belt removal. The assembly cracked on me, split the hole for the ratchet in half, but the belt is still on and tight. I cannot get anything in there to release the tension, and the bolt holding the pulley on faces the engine. Can anyone recommend a safe way to remove the belt tension so I can get it off and replace the assembly?

3 Replies

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

I would replace the belt. Also, just cut the belt and replace the tensor and belt. Just make sure you cut the belt away from the tensor so you do not get smacked by it. That is what I would do if I was working on it.

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Sunday, January 29th, 2017 AT 5:36 PM

NWEAVER1982

MEMBER
3 POSTS

After much debate, belt was cut at very bottom of engine. Not the severe "twang" I expected, so no risk of damage from belt slapping around and breaking old hoses. Added another $25 to my repair, but saved me a lot of time and headache. Thanks.

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Tuesday, January 31st, 2017 AT 6:08 AM

SATURNTECH9