DIY Tip - Idler Pulley Check
Idler pulleys run on either the outside or inside of the belt's parallel surfaces and their purpose is for belt tensioning only. Since they contact the straight edges of the belt, they are least affected when the belt begins to wear. Idler pulleys have bearings which can seize and ruin a belt in short order. Always check the idlers pulleys when replacing a belt especially if they are making noise. With the spark plug wire pulled, spin the pulley manually without the belt touching it to check the bearings. On some machines, the idler pulley tension is adjustable, but on many it is not. The process to adjust the tension varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. It is usually necessary to consult a service manual or owner's manual for the adjustment procedure. There is no tried and true universal adjustment procedure.
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