Belt Tensioner on a 1996 Mercury Sable

[Hookmaster]

The belt tensioner bearing is starting to squeek so I am going to replace it. Is replacing the belt tensioner as straight forward as releasing the pressure on the belt, removing the tensioner, installing the new tensioner and routing the belt over the tensioner? It looks like it is held on by one torx bolt. Can anyone tell me what size torx head it is?

[Jeremy airjer W]

3.0 OHV, 3.0 DOHC ?

The 3.0 OHV is that simple. Off the top of my head its one of these three. T-45, T-50, or a T-55 torx male socket.

[Scott K]

They both are that simple, and I dont remember what size it is.

[Hookmaster]

It's the DOHC. I suppose it's time I invest in a set of these since I'm doing jmost of the repairs that I can.

[Hookmaster]

I found one auto parts store that sells just the tensioner pulley. Is it better to replace the whole tensioner or just the pulley. I will probably keep the car for another 1.5 years.

[Scott K]

Replace the assy.

[mnviking28]

+1 on replacing assembly. The spring in the tensioner has just as many hours on it as the pulley does. The spring eventually loses tension and the belt doesn't stay tight or worse yet, breaks and leaves you stranded.

[SpecialK]

+2 on the assy. I bought a pulley for one once and even though it supposed to fit it didn't. got the whole assy and it worked like a champ.

[Hookmaster]

Thanks guys. It will be replaced on Sunday. Fishing Mille Lacs tomorrow.