Questions and Answers

Jeep Grand Cherokee Idler Pulley Q. I have a 1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee with an in-line 6 with an automatic transmission. It has 193,000 miles and still runs great, well that is up until the idler pulley next to the alternator blew a bearing. I have ordered a new pulley and would like to put it on myself.

I have already had the pulley by the A/C compressor replaced about two years ago and figure I could do the same thing and save the $100.00. Is there anything special about removing the pulley? Or is it as simple as removing the nut and pulling it off and sliding the new one on? Once I get it back on I plan to replace the belt and would like to know also an easy way to make sure I have the correct tension.

Any help in accomplishing this would be greatly appreciated.
Bruce

A. Yes Bruce, it is as simple as that. Without a belt tension gauge a good rule of thumb is about 1 inch of deflection at the longest belt run.

On your engine it's 1 inch between the power steering pump and the air conditioner compressor.