idler pulley gets stuck

1997 ACURA RL
220,000 MILES • 3.5L • V6 • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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STEPHEN KARANJA
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  • 47 POSTS
the idler pulley on this vehicle is getting stuck every time I tighten the nut that holds it. meaning when the belt is running on it smoke comes out. this is the idler pulley that runs air conditioner compressor. so I replaced it.same thing happened with the new one. only when I fasten the nut.could the bracket be bent? i cannot figure it out. what am I missing? i checked another vehicle just like it to make sure I put it on right and I did. just do not know why it is locking up. all the other belts are running fine.
Nov 5, 2016 at 3:39 AM
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WRENCHTECH
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 20,761 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
You could be missing one of the spacers or you may be installing the washer backwards so it is contacting the pulley itself. Something is contacting the pulley that should not be.
Nov 5, 2016 at 6:16 AM
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STEPHEN KARANJA
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  • 47 POSTS
thanks for help. i will check on it.
Nov 6, 2016 at 10:45 AM
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STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Please let us know what you find so it will help others.

Best, Ken
Nov 7, 2016 at 9:47 AM
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