Idler pulley woes

[66mgb]

Well, so much for trying to save a little cash... I replaced the idler pulley last year with a used unit when I did the chainguides. Last week, I was driving to my favorite carwash and the power steering went out. After finding a place to pull over and investigate, I found that the idler had seized and the PS / H20 pump belt was shredded.After a few select colorful adjectives, I drove my crippled Q back to the garage (3 blocks), and called up Infiniti of Scottsdale.

Is there any way to do this job from the topside? Either top or bottom, I hope that the radiator doesn't have to come out. That would be a PITA.
Modified by 66mgb at 10:55 PM 4/28/2007

[DrewQ45]

Go from underneath. Just remove the plastic belly pan and you'll be alright. Shouldn't be much of a problem at all. I'm waiting on bearings to arrive from Texasoil. I stopped driving the Q because the AC idler was a bit loud. I say when one starts screaming, I'd better change all three.

....Drew...

[konatown]

I got mine this week!They go on later next week!

[maxnix]

Is there any way to do this job from the topside? Either top or bottom, I hope that the radiator doesn't have to come out.

Trust in the FSM. It is trivial from the bottom on a lift.

[CrimsonQ]

Go from bottom. Its easy, I did it with only 1 hand.

[66mgb]

Sounds familiar...

[elwesso]

If I recall the only one I had to do from the bottom was the AC idler, The other ones i did from the top?

[texasoil]

I believe the OEM bearings in new pulleys are good. However, many 'aftermarket' bearings are not suitable for the high RPM and heat these tend to get. RPMS can easily get well over 10,000 for long periods. MUST have 'electric motor' high temp 20,000RPM rating to hold up.

[qship96]

my pullies are original with 189,xxx miles-do they give you advance notice before they go? aka,if I start to hear noises,do I have time to order from joe and make appt to get installed while still driving in the mean time? or do they just seize up w/o any notice leaving you stranded on the highway?

[superuber]

With that kind of mileage just call Joe now before they go!Hey, are you going to Carlisle? I see you are close.

[qship96]

I would love to meet up with all of you,however I cant get away then.maybe next time!