5.4 idler pulley = common problem?
#1
5.4 idler pulley = common problem?
Wondering before I go pulling things apart if the idler pully on the 5.4 is a common failure piece. Clicking/grinding noise seems to be coming from there. A shot of machine oil seemed to help, but could have been coincidence/imagination. Noise disappeared after returning from driving for ~20 minutes (mmmmmm.... pizza!), but returned the next morning.
Anybody?
Thanks.
Andy
EDIT: Also wondering of there's a preference in belts: Gates vs. Gatorback
Anybody?
Thanks.
Andy
EDIT: Also wondering of there's a preference in belts: Gates vs. Gatorback
Last edited by OhioLariat; 12-24-2006 at 06:02 PM.
#2
I have a 2004 with the 5.4 (I know it's a different engine than yours) but let me know if the replacement fixes the noise because I think my problem may be of the same nature. Also ask your nearest dealership/service department about a Cam Phaser; I'm not sure how much different than mine your engine is but the Cam Phaser (ticking) is a common issue with the 3V 5.4.
#3
#4
An idler pulley going bad is a common issue on any engine that uses a serpentine belt system. This pulley has a tough job to do and is under alot of pressure. It keeps the proper tension on the belt so it tracks properly around the other components. In other words it's nothing to be concerned about, it's perfectly normal to need to replace it once in awhile.
#5
HI!... Which idler pulley are you talking about? Some 5.4's came withy one on the left and right side of the timing chain cover :
The one on the right in the above pic or on the driver's side of the truck can be removed. It's useless. The one on the left is probably the one your speaking of. Just simply remove the center bolt from it and it will pull right off the timing chain cover. You can lift up the dust seals very carefully with a eyeglass screwdriver and regrease the bearing and simply snap the dust seals back in. Or go to your local bearing supplier and buy a new bearing for like $3.00. I suggest to go with a high speed bearing if your going to replace it. That's what I did. Less drag and will free up some H.P. Not much but mabey 1-2H.P. I've heard of LIGHTNING guys gaining up to 5-7H.P just by changing all their idler pulley bearing to high speed bearings.
The one on the right in the above pic or on the driver's side of the truck can be removed. It's useless. The one on the left is probably the one your speaking of. Just simply remove the center bolt from it and it will pull right off the timing chain cover. You can lift up the dust seals very carefully with a eyeglass screwdriver and regrease the bearing and simply snap the dust seals back in. Or go to your local bearing supplier and buy a new bearing for like $3.00. I suggest to go with a high speed bearing if your going to replace it. That's what I did. Less drag and will free up some H.P. Not much but mabey 1-2H.P. I've heard of LIGHTNING guys gaining up to 5-7H.P just by changing all their idler pulley bearing to high speed bearings.
Last edited by Neal; 12-24-2006 at 11:11 PM.
#6
Originally Posted by Neal
HI!... Which idler pulley are you talking about? Some 5.4's came withy one on the left and right side of the timing chain cover :
The one on the right in the above pic or on the driver's side of the truck can be removed. It's useless. The one on the left is probably the one your speaking of. Just simply remove the center bolt from it and it will pull right off the timing chain cover. You can lift up the dust seals very carefully with a eyeglass screwdriver and regrease the bearing and simply snap the dust seals back in. Or go to your local bearing supplier and buy a new bearing for like $3.00. I suggest to go with a high speed bearing if your going to replace it. That's what I did. Less drag and will free up some H.P. Not much but mabey 1-2H.P. I've heard of LIGHTNING guys gaining up to 5-7H.P just by changing all their idler pulley bearing to high speed bearings.
The one on the right in the above pic or on the driver's side of the truck can be removed. It's useless. The one on the left is probably the one your speaking of. Just simply remove the center bolt from it and it will pull right off the timing chain cover. You can lift up the dust seals very carefully with a eyeglass screwdriver and regrease the bearing and simply snap the dust seals back in. Or go to your local bearing supplier and buy a new bearing for like $3.00. I suggest to go with a high speed bearing if your going to replace it. That's what I did. Less drag and will free up some H.P. Not much but mabey 1-2H.P. I've heard of LIGHTNING guys gaining up to 5-7H.P just by changing all their idler pulley bearing to high speed bearings.
#7
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#9
#12
Originally Posted by rdogg450
My truck is an 04 5.4 3v and anytime it sits for a while and there is moisture out whether it be rain or a heavy dew it squeals for about 5 mins..... very annoying but haven't looked into it yet.... maybe belt issue also????
#13
Originally Posted by rdogg450
My truck is an 04 5.4 3v and anytime it sits for a while and there is moisture out whether it be rain or a heavy dew it squeals for about 5 mins..... very annoying but haven't looked into it yet.... maybe belt issue also????
About 6 months ago it finally went with 45-50k on the clock. The tensioner pulley was my problem, but I replaced both the tensioner pulley and the idler pulley since I was there.
#14
Turned out to be the tensioner pulley, but the good thing is they both took the same bearing! Had to clearance the bracket just a smidgen (new bearing sitting a few thousandths different than the old?) but all went well.
Noise gone, belt replaced...... but then noticed power steering fluid dripping (Must have bumped the hose for the last time, and after 210K miles and 7 years it was time for it to go.) So off comes the new belt to avoid contamination, R&R the hose, refill the PS reservoir, then back on with the belt, and now no more problems. (Quick! Where's some wood?)
Andy
Noise gone, belt replaced...... but then noticed power steering fluid dripping (Must have bumped the hose for the last time, and after 210K miles and 7 years it was time for it to go.) So off comes the new belt to avoid contamination, R&R the hose, refill the PS reservoir, then back on with the belt, and now no more problems. (Quick! Where's some wood?)
Andy