How to Replace Serpentine Belt Tensioner Pulley V8 4.6L 06-09 Ford Explorer

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 45 min · Ford Explorer

Replace the serpentine belt tensioner pulley on a 2006-2009 Ford Explorer with the V8 4.6L engine.

Steps

1. Move the intake aside

   Loosen the intake hose clamp, disconnect the breather lines, loosen the throttle body hose clamp, then pull the intake hose off.

2. Remove the old belt

   Note the routing diagram, fit a 1/4 inch drive ratchet into the tensioner, turn it clockwise to relieve tension, then work the belt off each pulley in turn and pull it clear.

3. Remove the old tensioner

   Take out its three 10mm bolts and lift it out.

4. Swap the pulley onto the tensioner

   Remove the single 13mm bolt holding the old pulley, fit the new pulley, then tighten the 13mm bolt.

5. Reinstall the tensioner

   Line it up and fasten its three 10mm bolts.

6. Reinstall the belt

   Loop it around the crank, between the tensioner and A/C pulleys, over the water pump, under the idler and power steering pulleys, use the ratchet on the tensioner to bring it over the alternator and under the smooth idler, then release and double check the routing.

7. Reinstall the intake

   Line up the hose, reconnect the breather lines, then tighten both hose clamps.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.