duckJAI

How do you determine if the tensioner has gone bad?

I've applied pressure to the timing belt and it does have some play in it. The tensioner does move while I apply pressure, but I'm not sure how much is too much since I'm unfamiliar with Lexus.

Is the spring inside the tensioner bad because I can move it slighty?

Belt still seems to be good though. I was getting some sounds from the belt, but when I spray WD-40 it goes away. So I'm not sure if it's the tensioner that is the role player in my issue.

Also, at specifically ONLY 40mph, I get a whistle. Like a "neeeeeee" sound. Once I past 40mph it goes away. Sounds like an audio feedback but it's not.

Would all these issues be because of a bad tensioner?

Thanks!

PS: I'm at 160k (CND kilometers)

Lafool09

Are you sure you're not talking about the accessory belt...tensioner?

jhill20

iTrader: (1)

Yes, must be. The tensioner for the Timing belt is a hydraulic unit and cannot come loose without touching the two bolts that attach it to the block.

You may very well have a pulley noise. If you feel up to it, remove the accessory belt and spin all of the pulleys listening for noisy ones. Replacing the belt also wouldn't be the worst idea. Sometimes serpentine belts can exhibit sounds from being slightly oversized due to time. Even without any visible damage like cracking.

Hope this helps...

PHML

iTrader: (33)

serpentine belt or timing belt? which are you referring to?

duckJAI

I do apologize, I meant accessory belt tensioner.

Can this become loose, and if so how loose is too loose? I realize there's a spring inside the tensioner.

If this becomes loose, it could in effect make sounds since the belts aren't tight enough, right?

Thanks for the help!

JeffTsai

iTrader: (1)

It shouldn't wear out for quite a long time. If it's squealing then your belt is probably worn. The accessory belt isn't on there too tight from the factory. I think there's a spec somewhere in the service manual. It's a test like if you press down on the top of the belt with 20lbs of force, it should only go down by so much. If it goes more than specified then it might be time to change the tensioner.