1998 Ford Windstar tensioner

1998 FORD WINDSTAR
65,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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BBOUCHERM1
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i have a rattle coming directly from my belt tensioner. i have replaced it with 2 different brands of new tensioner assembly, and still the rattle.
i used a long bar to hear and no for a fact its coming from the tensioner. also ran van without the belt and no rattle. everything seems to be lined up, no squeeling or slipping of the belt. all pullys spin freely.
the assembly is not hitting anything. i can't figure it out. any ideas would be helpful.
Aug 15, 2010 at 4:42 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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I have had the same thing happen with other model car's using certain brand tensioners they rattle especially when you rev the engine up.You can try some other brands or you might have to get a factory one if all else fail's.
Aug 15, 2010 at 6:06 PM
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BBOUCHERM1
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sound goes away when you hit the gas. only does it when at idle.
Aug 15, 2010 at 6:45 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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Why did you replace it in the first place?
Aug 16, 2010 at 1:18 AM
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BBOUCHERM1
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because it rattled, and 2 different new ones do too
Aug 16, 2010 at 2:26 PM
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SATURNTECH9
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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The crazy part is the rattle goes away when you hit the gas.You could have a bunch of weak belt tensioner. or it's something other then the tensioner.
Aug 17, 2010 at 2:39 PM
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BBOUCHERM1
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turns out i kept useing the old belt which looked good, but was aparently stretched out. new tensioner wasn't getting tight enough. so the tensioner would bounce. new belt solved problem.
thanks for your replys
Aug 17, 2010 at 5:41 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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I didn't know you used the old belt I assumed you changed it.Glad to hear you got I all figured out that makes total sense though.
Aug 17, 2010 at 5:52 PM
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