I need help/guidance on how to replace the A/C idler/tension pulley on a 98 DX 1.6L coupe. I have searched and searched on line on how to do this and can't seem to find any help.

Thanks

 

Loosen center nut, loosen belt with adjusting nut, and remove center nut:

 

Thansk Ronj for the reply. Do you have any insight on how to get to the pulley. It looks like its next to impossible to reach. Do you have to take the upper motor mount off? Or is there an easier way?

Thanks again.

 

It's not fun, but the only real way to work on the idler pulley is from the top. If equipped with power steering, first unbolt the PS pump from the engine (do not disconnect the fluid lines), and set it aside so you can reach down to the A/C pulley easier.

 

I agree. Loosen the bolts for the PS pump and then slip the PS belt off the crank pulley. That should give you just enough space to get the idler pulley off.

 

Thanks guys. I'll give it a go now. One thing I don't have to worry about is getting the old belt off. The pulley locked completely up and took care of that for me, all while going 80mph down the interstate

 

Also if the bearing failed, you don't have to replace the whole pulley. You can change just the bearing in it. It should be a standard #6203 double-sealed. After the pulley is off the car, use a bench vise to press the old bearing out and put a new one in.

 

I managed to get the old pulley off and put the new one with no problems. However when I got ready to put the new belt on, i've hit a snag. There is a shaft in between the compressor pulley and idler pulley. I'm assuming it is a lower engine mount. Do I need to remove this bracket before I can put the new belt on? I don't see how to get it on any other way. The image below shows where the bracket/shaft is.

 

You are correct. It is the left front engine mount. Remove the 2 bolts labeled #2 in the diagram below. You then should be able to slip the belt between the frame and mount.

 

You only need to take out the two bolts that go up and hold the mount to the frame.

The engine will not fall, as this mount is just to handle torque while accelerating. The big mount at the top (which you will not be messing with) supports the weight of the engine.

If necessary, push or pry down a little to get a gap between the mount and the frame and slide the belt through.