Hello. I want to replace the tensioner pulley on my 98 2.2L OHV Chevy Cavalier. Recently it started making a high pitch squealing noise that increases with engine RPMs and appears to be coming from the tensioner. I went to my local auto parts store and they told me that I only needed to replace the wheel on this assembly. So I purchased the part and started work on Saturday. I removed the serpentine belt and started to remove the one bolt that secures the fixed part of the tensioner to the engine block. However, before I can fully remove the bolt it comes up against the inside of the engine compartment. There is just not enough clearance to completely remove the bolt. Some options I considered were (easy) to cut off the head of the bolt and use a shorter bolt upon reassembly. Secondly, (hard) remove the engine mounts and drop the engine a few inched to give me the necessary clearance. It does not appear feasible to replace the tensioner pulley wheel in place. Has anyone ever done this type of job before? Thanks!
Aug 7, 2010 at 5:15 PM