Function of an Idler Pulley

The idler pulley is an inseparable part of the vehicle system and you would find that the function of an idler pulley is quite important for the proper functioning of several components of the vehicle. Before you look at the major function of the idler pulley, you need to know about the type of belts that are implemented in the vehicular systems. Basically, V belts and serpentine belts are two common types of belt systems that are used in vehicles. While V belts were used in older generation vehicles, the serpentine belts are a part of the recent vehicles and these depend heavily on the idler pulley. Here is some information regarding the major function of the idler pulley and the serpentine belt structure.

Serpentine Idler Pulley

The new age of vehicles has brought about the use of serpentine idler pulleys. Basically, the serpentine belt system relies on fewer set of belts to get the important functions done and one particular serpentine belt handles more functions than a corresponding V belt. The serpentine belts rely upon the function of the idler pulley to determine the sequence and regulation of the movement of belts from the crankshaft to other parts of the engine. The idler pulley is responsible for the proper functioning and scheduling of air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, and the alternator of the vehicle. The idler pulley mainly assists the motion of such serpentine belts and provides them support for accessing and controlling various other parts of the engine. Since the idler pulley is a free play component, the chances of wear and tear affecting the idler pulley are much higher. In case your vehicle’s idler pulley is being affected due to wear and tear, make sure that you get it checked and fixed, so as to ensure the proper functioning of different components of the vehicle.

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Strange Idler Pulley Noise

The strange idler pulley noise that is coming from your vehicle can be because of a bad idler pulley. An idler pulley can go bad due to various reasons, but in most cases, it corresponds to wear and tear of the idler pulley. Since this component is quite prone to wear and tear, it is recommended that the idler pulley is checked after a certain time of vehicle run. Distance, or time, serves as the most common benchmarks for determining the flawless function of idler pulley and in case your vehicle has crossed these benchmarks, it is time for you to get your idler pulley checked. Generally, entire belt system is scanned and repaired for flaws. The minor idler pulley noise can be remedied through simple tightening of the idler pulley bolt, while the major cases would require complete replacement of the entire belt system.

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