Hi, I have a 1992 Camaro RS (V8 5.0L 305 engine automatic) that had the entire drive belt tensioner assembly "pop" off while driving up a steep incline. Lost power steering, cooling, AC, etc. Had to have my car towed 25 mi home. The tow truck driver opened the hood, handed the entire assembly (figure '8' shaped part with a huge spring inside one side + whitish pvc-esque inner washer, pully wheel on the other side) and the belt (which is only 2 months old-good condition). The bolt still attached to engine (as far as I can see).

Here's my question(s) are: How do you know if the assembly is old and must be replaced? Is this easily repairable (i.e. I can put the one that came off back on if I just remove the bolt or replace a pulley, etc?) or do I need to buy an entire new assembly ($65.00 +labor)?

(I've attached a pic of the assembly, minus the white pvc part and bolt)


Thank you for your help!

 

Chances are if it popped off it is bad. Buy a used one, and put it on yourself. $20 at most

 

I agree with KrazyFirst, it's most likely toast. You can pick one up at rockauto for $40 (min for full assembly) and it's fairly easy to put on yourself. In the case of autozone, they only have the roller in stock and the assembly has to be 'special ordered'.

 

Thanks for your input!

 

I just bought one off Rock auto myself. It is very easy to install, no need for a shop.

 

Bro if you're on these forums you can install it yourself. It is like one bolt. Buy a new one or a good used one. I would not reuse something that inexpensive that already left you stranded once. It is a torx head bolt so if you don't have that kind of socket you'll need to pick up a set. There are several bolts on our cars that are torx so it would be a good idea to buy a set anyway.

 

DAYCO Part # 89213

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dayco-89213-...fc5fc2&vxp=mtr