Just received drive belt tensioner assembly (Gates brand) from Rock Auto yesterday. Looks new, but idler pulley isn't spinning freely with some resistance, seems like it's scraping tensioner just a bit as seen in attached photo. In photo, there's almost ZERO clearance between idler pulley and tensioner body itself, thus scraping/rubbing. Also, the two pulleys are not level, thought they should be the same level.

Anyone have any experience with these Gates brand drive belt assembly replacement? Thanks for your opinion.
Sorry for shaky photo of pulley.

 

We can't see pictures, use different hosting.

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Hope this works . . .

 

Take a look at the unit that came off the TL. Here's an OEM Acura/Honda unit:


There's not much clearance between the tensioner pulley and tensioner, but it shouldn't rub. Just make certain it's level when trying to turn.

 

Thanks for reply. Looks like your idler pulley sits somewhat lower than tensioner pulley.
Does yours also make rubbing/scraping noise when trying to spin although it's not loud?

Mine definitely is rubbing, can hear the soft rubbing noise.

 

No rubbing noise when the idler pulley is turned. New bearings will create some resistance, but once again it shouldn't rub.
When you received the unit, the tensioner pulley was attached, correct?

 

I understand there should be some resistance with new bearing, but don't think it should rub.
I'm going to have the bearing pressed in a bit. Thanks for the comments!

 

I always use OEM. Also, the 07/08 tensioners are like only $140 (cdn) from the dealer, almost half price of the 04-06. Rockauto has the same part numbers for 04-08 so I don't see why you can't interchange from the dealer.

 

I bought Gates brand "belt tensioner kit(belt, tensioner with idler pulley)" Rock Auto for $61+shipping. Had the kit installed, all is well for now. I have been using Gates brand idler pulley for my other vehicle with no issue. If it didn't work or last long enough, I'll go with OEM. Thanks for the comments!

Steve

 

I had the gates on my 06 TL and after 3 winters started showing signs of wear.

 

I'll keep your post in mind and keeping my ears out for idler pulley noise.