My brother retired from his own shop after 35 years. He always told me to find noises by getting a cheap stethoscope, removing the cup and pushing a steel rod into the rubber hose. I did, and it has saved me a lot of wasted time and efoort. For pulleys, you can bend the tip of the rod to get it onto the center bolt to listen. Of course, go esay on the pressure when it's spinning. It'll be nisy, but the bad pulley noise will come through if you'er listening to the right one.
I never comment on videos but this video was so helpful. It let me know everything I would encounter. Luckily I was able to drill out the broken tab for the tensioner and took it easy with the alternator bracket as to not break the bolts. Thanks.
Hey, i just want to say that i went through exactly to a T what you guys went through. Exactly. Every step you took, every tool you used i even had same tools it was great knowing it wasn’t just me going through this. Loved it. I know i am a subscriber. Thx
The greatest tip (below) not mentioned in the video is using a vice-grips to break free the torx-bit screw. It sticks out about 1/8" and is a challenging grip, but with finesse there's enough there to get a good bite. For many, this may be your only option. It was for me. Great video overcoming obstacles as they arise. Real-life mechanics. Thanks.
Great video guys. It just seems like more jeep projects take 10 times longer than initially projected. These jeeps sure do put up a good fight sometimes! Good job guys.
Love watching your videos. I have a 2001 WJ 4.0L also and your videos are very helpful. I have watched most of your videos on your channel really enjoyed watching them.
Over the years , i replaced all my pulleys, water pump, alternator, belts, and with out fail,,as soon as it starts to get cold out,,chirp chirp chirp...frgn belt or pulley or whatever, starts making noise again??..frustrating as hell ..good video by the way..keep em going..🤘🇺🇸
i'm doing this exact job in two days, had a great time watching your experiences with it. I haven't had to do much on the jeep I juts got but I've done the tension on a 01 Windstar & 04 Sable Wagon. Nice to know this is a PITA on all vehicles. :)
I seem to usually have the worst luck on my WJ jobs as well, when it seems to be a 30 minute job turns into a day or two job. Now I am looking at doing this exact job because my belt is quite loose. Just by eyeballing this job at first, I thought it would be easy peasy lemon squeezy. But now, after watching your video you have officially made me hesitant from wanting to do it 😅 but I shall conquer and divide and pray that there be no seizing nor rounding and that this job does not turn into a multiple day go getter. Let it be quick and easy. If there is a Lord above, please help me HaHaHa! You have a WJ, I have a WJ... Obviously we run into similar problems and I have watched your videos in the past that have been very helpful. So, I have officially subscribed and this video LIKED. Thank you sir
Thanks for the tips, just did mine on a 2005 LJ. Broke the nubs off the tensioner and they stayed in the bracket but I was able to drill them out no problem. The bolt on my tensioner had no recess for a Torx bit, just an outline, but I was able to use a pipe wrench and vise grips to get it out. Appreciate the great video!!
Stumbled across this with having to do the tensioner that self destructed on my tj. For that alternator bolt, one of those stud extractors that wrench on and bite are worth their weight in gold to have in the tool box when working on the heeps lol
Thanks for the heads-up.. I was mentally prepared... Of course I had both problems..could not get the bracket mounting bolt out Used a drill press to drill a 3/8 hole straight through and used a bolt with nut. Worked fine.
Had same issue last week. Torx rounded, removed alt and bracket and of course the same top bolt snapped and the tensionor welded to the bracket. Drilled the lot , never got the top bolt out properly but I have no U Pulls in this country and Jeeps are rare. So for now its all back on with new tensioner and the bottom bolt on the alternator is tight until i can source new bracket
The torx bolt on mine was rounding off so I took the alternator bracket off, to be able to get to the bolt easier. I used a pair of vice grips on the bolt and that worked very well. Luckily I didn't have the corroded tab problem you had.
If that's the top alternator mounting bolt my bolt head broke off as well but bolt sticks out long enough to hold Alternator on even though there is no head. I haven't had a issue as of yet and works just fine since the lower mounting bolt came out just fine.
Thx for the info. I found the tensioner did not completely returned to the starting point with my TJ when putting the belt back on. I was able to remove it w/o issue, spray some PB Blaster on the spring, work it good, and back on it went, good as new!!! No resistance!!!
To get stuck bolts out put two nuts on the stud tighten them together them together and turn the bottom on to left with matching wrench it should get stud out
I had a similar problem my 1999 Dodge ram van. Changed all the pulleys and it ended up being my power steering pump pulley that was misaligned. I pressed it on another eighth of an inch and it took the squeak away. I had changed my power steering pump a couple weeks prior and it didn’t make any noise for two weeks and then start to squeak.
LOL my tension pulley blew on my 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited the wheel disintegrated and I made it home took my sister's car to U-Pull got to love U-Pull.. And to remove the pulley itself I used a 13 mm socket.... And I got lucky mine popped off and I put grease on the other one.. That a month later I replaced the heater core and the water pump and the thermostat that sucked
I feel your pain 04 jeep g c engine squeal, tried replacing the alternator and the idler pully, wasn't either of those. I keep throwing money at this old girl; maybe she just really wants to retire? Still have slight tick in the engine, death wobble, axle bearing issue, needs tires, and probably other suspension items. These jeeps are fun but time consuming money pits.....
Try zome ZDDP additive for the tick, they don't use the zinc protective in modern oils like they used to back when the jeep came out, and it seems to work for a number of people. If you haven't found that squeal yet and it's not the tensioner, I've seen some people have glazing on the surfaces where the belt meets the pulleys, so maybe those need some scrubbing with one of those green or blue scrub pads.
@@cobaltclass. Thank I sold my jeep my family was worried about the suspension. weirdly though I miss fixing her up. It was very rewarding even though I did most diring the dead of winter. I won't say I won't do it again. I loved the ride and the stereo!
I’m trying to figure out if the bolt that holds the pilot itself if in reverse thread cause my tensioner is strong but the pulley needs replacing and I’m trying to figure that out before I start trying to break it lose
You can actually take your alternator off take the bracket off let the alternator is bolted to and the tension pulley is bolted to the bracket you don't have to take the radiator out and weld nothing to it
Have a drill press, but the shape of the bracket proved difficult to clam securely. If you start with a small bit and work your way up, it isnt too bad to use a hand drill. That said, if you wanted it bad enough I am sure there was a way to clamp it for the press
D&E In The Garage True.the Part Has to be Clamped......this Is Something I'm considering because on My Crawler Build I'm seriously thinking about Flipping the Tie rods to do the High steering option. If you have Any advice for that I'd love to hear it. My Stone Stock 99 Wj is Keeping the Faith with just a set of 245×70's on it and She Puts in 50to 60 miles a day.....keeps on jeepin for the Cause!
I have been looking into that for myself as well. go-fer-it makes a really affordable insert so that all you do is drill out the hole (i would probably use a hand drill on the vehicle) and place these inserts in and tack them in place. then you use stock tie rod and TREs www.goferitoffroad.com/products.htm
D&E In The Garage Yes I'm looking at the set up from Kevin's I believe it comes with all the inserts for Tie rods and Drag link. But it's Something that looks like I'll have to-do at some point
i am having very similar issues to you. I need to replace the top alternator bolt (the shorter one) and the screw that screws on the belt tensioner. Any idea where I could get replacements?
Hey guys can u help me !!I have a 95 jeep cherokee xj and for some reason when I drive in the high way after 45mph if i hit any bump or hole in the road. all jeep shaking ..the mecanic change all shocks front and back and the front hubs but still the same any help thanks!!
I've been looking all over the Internet for that bracket and I cannot find it for my 2001 WJ. Does anybody have any suggestions on where I can find that exact bracket?
Usually it is because oil has not made it up to the top of the engine yet. Could also be slightly worn out lifters. I highly recommend you use an oil with zinc. I have a video on it. ruclips.net/video/YobFtCr0Z4w/видео.html
Yes, on the WJ it has a spring loaded tensioning arm, so the arm can move a bit which the engine is running. If your belt is not making noise then the spring has not worn out which would allow the belt to slip and squeal
I just bought a 2003 Grand Cherokee. Thanks for your great video. Looks like my best bet is to weld on a nut because this is not going to come out easy. This Jeep was designed by idiots. Why would you use a torx head bolt for this application. OH, because you know that you will never have to work on one. So far everything that I have had to fix is designed to make it impossible to work on.
18 Years gonna have a weakness, likely the bearing in the pulley not the tensioner. can be dry and repacked 6303-2RS two rubber seals axial bearing $3-15 rpm spec 6-15K so don't buy cheap ABEC 3 or higher. on second thought, you really blew that steel bolt removal from the alternator bracket. by simple impatience and inexperience. first you never secured the bolt you could have used 2 nuts binded and a regular socket Heating the bracket Only then should have been done longer torch heating. It would have turned..
I have an 03 cherokee laredo and when it goes below 30 I get this very loud whistle. Can't figure out if it is coming from the idler pulley or tensioner pulley. To cold for me to be outside taking shit apart to try and figure it out. If anyone has any ideas what this loud whistle sound is and it is not the belt I am all ears. It only happens when it is really cold. Otherwise I am getting rid of this pile of shit.
Could be anything on the front of the engine. Idler and power steering pulley seem to be common culprits. Without hearing it, it is hard to tell. If you are in the NJ area and trying to get rid of a problem Jeep, let me know... we are always in the market..
@@DEInTheGarage I am in upstate Ny. I really don't want to sell it because it is in great shape and just put 4 new tires on it 2 days ago. The noise only happens when it is like 15 degrees. Happened 1 time last year then went away until last night. I bet it won't be their the next time I start the Jeep.
@@IanRLewis mine does it at times. I found the idler pulley to be the culprit. Does it till heat builds up in the engine bay and it goes away. It don't bother me that much. Or get ya some good belt dressing and that takes it out as well
That is was... I've been meaning to tell you that I fixed that blinker issue. Turns out on the XJ the blinkers and running lights share a bulb, but are two separate circuits. turns out the side of the terminal that was for the running lights was broken. Pulled a new one for $1 and it works fine!
Love this video due to the fact that you have showed the real issues that we have to go through to fix our vehicles.
Thanks guys
My brother retired from his own shop after 35 years. He always told me to find noises by getting a cheap stethoscope, removing the cup and pushing a steel rod into the rubber hose. I did, and it has saved me a lot of wasted time and efoort. For pulleys, you can bend the tip of the rod to get it onto the center bolt to listen. Of course, go esay on the pressure when it's spinning. It'll be nisy, but the bad pulley noise will come through if you'er listening to the right one.
Story of my life at times... I actually loved this video......
Someday it all goes well and some days you make this video. It is all part of the game
What do the hash marks represent on the tensioner and is that a way to determine if it's not tight enough
Exactly what I to see before I start working on my Wrangler. Although I think I'll try penetrating oil if my screws are stuck.
I never comment on videos but this video was so helpful. It let me know everything I would encounter. Luckily I was able to drill out the broken tab for the tensioner and took it easy with the alternator bracket as to not break the bolts. Thanks.
Hey, i just want to say that i went through exactly to a T what you guys went through. Exactly. Every step you took, every tool you used i even had same tools it was great knowing it wasn’t just me going through this. Loved it. I know i am a subscriber. Thx
The greatest tip (below) not mentioned in the video is using a vice-grips to break free the torx-bit screw. It sticks out about 1/8" and is a challenging grip, but with finesse there's enough there to get a good bite. For many, this may be your only option. It was for me.
Great video overcoming obstacles as they arise. Real-life mechanics. Thanks.
Didn’t think of that! Thanks
thanks for the video! helped me fix the exact problem I was having in just under 4 hours and got back on the road!
Amazing that you didn’t blow a gasket, I mean getting really pissed off. I appreciate your even keel on the project.
Haha..
Great video guys. It just seems like more jeep projects take 10 times longer than initially projected. These jeeps sure do put up a good fight sometimes! Good job guys.
Put up a fight is a good way to put it!
Dude!!!! I can not describe how thankful i am and how useful this video was. Wish i had watched this before i started lol. Thanks again brothers
Hey! Glad you found it useful!
Vice grips and a torx at the same time works amazing
Sprayed down the bolt beforehand and used the vice grips to break the bolt before using the torx. Thanks for the advice!!!
Love watching your videos. I have a 2001 WJ 4.0L also and your videos are very helpful. I have watched most of your videos on your channel really enjoyed watching them.
The best part......the good old fashioned...
Woooof.. torch lights wrong. One mo lets get it, woooof***. Epic, made my day brother.
Over the years , i replaced all my pulleys, water pump, alternator, belts, and with out fail,,as soon as it starts to get cold out,,chirp chirp chirp...frgn belt or pulley or whatever, starts making noise again??..frustrating as hell ..good video by the way..keep em going..🤘🇺🇸
currently what I'm dealing with
i'm doing this exact job in two days, had a great time watching your experiences with it. I haven't had to do much on the jeep I juts got but I've done the tension on a 01 Windstar & 04 Sable Wagon. Nice to know this is a PITA on all vehicles. :)
Yep. It is always fun, but usually not QUITE this bad. Good luck with it!
I seem to usually have the worst luck on my WJ jobs as well, when it seems to be a 30 minute job turns into a day or two job. Now I am looking at doing this exact job because my belt is quite loose. Just by eyeballing this job at first, I thought it would be easy peasy lemon squeezy. But now, after watching your video you have officially made me hesitant from wanting to do it 😅 but I shall conquer and divide and pray that there be no seizing nor rounding and that this job does not turn into a multiple day go getter. Let it be quick and easy. If there is a Lord above, please help me HaHaHa!
You have a WJ, I have a WJ... Obviously we run into similar problems and I have watched your videos in the past that have been very helpful. So, I have officially subscribed and this video LIKED. Thank you sir
Thanks for the tips, just did mine on a 2005 LJ. Broke the nubs off the tensioner and they stayed in the bracket but I was able to drill them out no problem. The bolt on my tensioner had no recess for a Torx bit, just an outline, but I was able to use a pipe wrench and vise grips to get it out. Appreciate the great video!!
I had similar problems I think you guys figured out how to do it the best way I enjoy your video thank you for posting
Thanks for watching!
Stumbled across this with having to do the tensioner that self destructed on my tj. For that alternator bolt, one of those stud extractors that wrench on and bite are worth their weight in gold to have in the tool box when working on the heeps lol
Thanks for the heads-up.. I was mentally prepared... Of course I had both problems..could not get the bracket mounting bolt out Used a drill press to drill a 3/8 hole straight through and used a bolt with nut. Worked fine.
Man, you guy deal with an amazing amount of corrosion where you live (northeast?). Nice work getting it all done.
Had same issue last week. Torx rounded, removed alt and bracket and of course the same top bolt snapped and the tensionor welded to the bracket. Drilled the lot , never got the top bolt out properly but I have no U Pulls in this country and Jeeps are rare. So for now its all back on with new tensioner and the bottom bolt on the alternator is tight until i can source new bracket
😂🤣 first time in 50 years i heard someone call a torx a tor x
I usually just change the bearing ..its a 6203 ..like 3$ for it
The torx bolt on mine was rounding off so I took the alternator bracket off, to be able to get to the bolt easier. I used a pair of vice grips on the bolt and that worked very well. Luckily I didn't have the corroded tab problem you had.
If that's the top alternator mounting bolt my bolt head broke off as well but bolt sticks out long enough to hold Alternator on even though there is no head. I haven't had a issue as of yet and works just fine since the lower mounting bolt came out just fine.
I was going to do this for a friend, but seeing your video , i won't.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph,........that looks like one of my projects!!!! :) Thank you for the video.
It was a hell of an event, let me tell you
Thanks guys
Thx for the info. I found the tensioner did not completely returned to the starting point with my TJ when putting the belt back on. I was able to remove it w/o issue, spray some PB Blaster on the spring, work it good, and back on it went, good as new!!! No resistance!!!
With all that rust you guys have I would put a skim coat of anti seize on that. Damn rust!
You aren't lying buddy...
To get stuck bolts out put two nuts on the stud tighten them together them together and turn the bottom on to left with matching wrench it should get stud out
I had a similar problem my 1999 Dodge ram van. Changed all the pulleys and it ended up being my power steering pump pulley that was misaligned. I pressed it on another eighth of an inch and it took the squeak away. I had changed my power steering pump a couple weeks prior and it didn’t make any noise for two weeks and then start to squeak.
That is some solid advice.
LOL my tension pulley blew on my 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited the wheel disintegrated and I made it home took my sister's car to U-Pull got to love U-Pull..
And to remove the pulley itself I used a 13 mm socket....
And I got lucky mine popped off and I put grease on the other one..
That a month later I replaced the heater core and the water pump and the thermostat that sucked
Thanks, very helpful.
Thanks for this I'm now a subscriber lol but working on the same as you on my wife's jeep wrangler ugh
I feel your pain 04 jeep g c engine squeal, tried replacing the alternator and the idler pully, wasn't either of those. I keep throwing money at this old girl; maybe she just really wants to retire? Still have slight tick in the engine, death wobble, axle bearing issue, needs tires, and probably other suspension items. These jeeps are fun but time consuming money pits.....
Try zome ZDDP additive for the tick, they don't use the zinc protective in modern oils like they used to back when the jeep came out, and it seems to work for a number of people. If you haven't found that squeal yet and it's not the tensioner, I've seen some people have glazing on the surfaces where the belt meets the pulleys, so maybe those need some scrubbing with one of those green or blue scrub pads.
@@cobaltclass. Thank I sold my jeep my family was worried about the suspension. weirdly though I miss fixing her up. It was very rewarding even though I did most diring the dead of winter. I won't say I won't do it again. I loved the ride and the stereo!
My idler tensioner pulley just seized up and destroyed my belt. Thankfully I was able to pull into a church parking lot before she over heated
This happened to me 30 mins ago... hense why I'm watching this as of right now.
@@mushy.popcorn it’s a really easy fix, took me 15mins to replace 2 pulleys and put the new belt in
I’m trying to figure out if the bolt that holds the pilot itself if in reverse thread cause my tensioner is strong but the pulley needs replacing and I’m trying to figure that out before I start trying to break it lose
You can actually take your alternator off take the bracket off let the alternator is bolted to and the tension pulley is bolted to the bracket you don't have to take the radiator out and weld nothing to it
I just did one these and when I broke the bolt loose the tensioner just came right off no problem lol.
Lucky!
You need a drill press, but this brackets a concern of Mine. I'm getting a drill press myself. Thank God for Harbor Frieght...lol
Have a drill press, but the shape of the bracket proved difficult to clam securely. If you start with a small bit and work your way up, it isnt too bad to use a hand drill. That said, if you wanted it bad enough I am sure there was a way to clamp it for the press
D&E In The Garage True.the Part Has to be Clamped......this Is Something I'm considering because on My Crawler Build I'm seriously thinking about Flipping the Tie rods to do the High steering option. If you have Any advice for that I'd love to hear it. My Stone Stock 99 Wj is Keeping the Faith with just a set of 245×70's on it and She Puts in 50to 60 miles a day.....keeps on jeepin for the Cause!
I have been looking into that for myself as well. go-fer-it makes a really affordable insert so that all you do is drill out the hole (i would probably use a hand drill on the vehicle) and place these inserts in and tack them in place. then you use stock tie rod and TREs www.goferitoffroad.com/products.htm
Should note that you also have to flip you drag link on the WJ. Use the same process
D&E In The Garage Yes I'm looking at the set up from Kevin's I believe it comes with all the inserts for Tie rods and Drag link. But it's Something that looks like I'll have to-do at some point
i am having very similar issues to you. I need to replace the top alternator bolt (the shorter one) and the screw that screws on the belt tensioner. Any idea where I could get replacements?
Hey guys can u help me !!I have a 95 jeep cherokee xj and for some reason when I drive in the high way after 45mph if i hit any bump or hole in the road. all jeep shaking ..the mecanic change all shocks front and back and the front hubs but still the same any help thanks!!
My 01 is currently like this. Only the previous owner just ground a nub off the new tensioner and mounted it. 🤦🏻♂️
WOW... awesome. Gotta love that
I've been looking all over the Internet for that bracket and I cannot find it for my 2001 WJ. Does anybody have any suggestions on where I can find that exact bracket?
The darn thing broke on me too!
You know if you had hit that corrosion with some hydrochloric acid the broken piece would have just fallen out once the acid ate the calcium up.
Dang.. I will have to try that next time
Like...."The Works" toilet bowl cleaner?
What causes 4 liter to tick when you cold start it.
Usually it is because oil has not made it up to the top of the engine yet. Could also be slightly worn out lifters. I highly recommend you use an oil with zinc. I have a video on it. ruclips.net/video/YobFtCr0Z4w/видео.html
I’ve gone thru 8 t40 and can’t get the tensioner off lol
Use heat longer!
I took the fan and shroud out much easier
Should the idler pulley be moving, my belt isn’t making noise but the pulley seem to have some play with the engine running
Yes, on the WJ it has a spring loaded tensioning arm, so the arm can move a bit which the engine is running. If your belt is not making noise then the spring has not worn out which would allow the belt to slip and squeal
Late to the party, but does anyone make a "normal" hex head replacement for that stupid torx thing?
Yes, I think Crown Automotive has one
Tore ex lol
I just bought a 2003 Grand Cherokee. Thanks for your great video. Looks like my best bet is to weld on a nut because this is not going to come out easy. This Jeep was designed by idiots. Why would you use a torx head bolt for this application. OH, because you know that you will never have to work on one. So far everything that I have had to fix is designed to make it impossible to work on.
soak ovwe night in used motor oil, double nut it.......but hey you got to play with tools
Double nut,,,, I was thinking the same thing...
18 Years gonna have a weakness, likely the bearing in the pulley not the tensioner. can be dry and repacked 6303-2RS two rubber seals axial bearing $3-15 rpm spec 6-15K so don't buy cheap ABEC 3 or higher. on second thought, you really blew that steel bolt removal from the alternator bracket. by simple impatience and inexperience. first you never secured the bolt you could have used 2 nuts binded and a regular socket Heating the bracket Only then should have been done longer torch heating. It would have turned..
21 inch lbs
Hey what size torx? t30 to small t40 to big
T40 your bolt probably had rust& junk in it I used a t40 and a pair of vice grips at the same time it came right out
Omg i cant watch anymore.as your now having to drill the bolt ..🤯 kiss those threads goodbye
Not the answer-- what the hell?
I have an 03 cherokee laredo and when it goes below 30 I get this very loud whistle. Can't figure out if it is coming from the idler pulley or tensioner pulley. To cold for me to be outside taking shit apart to try and figure it out. If anyone has any ideas what this loud whistle sound is and it is not the belt I am all ears. It only happens when it is really cold. Otherwise I am getting rid of this pile of shit.
Could be anything on the front of the engine. Idler and power steering pulley seem to be common culprits. Without hearing it, it is hard to tell. If you are in the NJ area and trying to get rid of a problem Jeep, let me know... we are always in the market..
@@DEInTheGarage I am in upstate Ny. I really don't want to sell it because it is in great shape and just put 4 new tires on it 2 days ago. The noise only happens when it is like 15 degrees. Happened 1 time last year then went away until last night. I bet it won't be their the next time I start the Jeep.
@@IanRLewis mine does it at times. I found the idler pulley to be the culprit. Does it till heat builds up in the engine bay and it goes away. It don't bother me that much. Or get ya some good belt dressing and that takes it out as well
Where at in upstate. I was born in Watertown.
@@RawTruth420 25 minutes south of Albany.
Its easier to chip the rest of the nub out
Never Ever, Never Ever, wrench on aluminum when it is hot or even warm, or things will break off.
What a pain in the arse!
That is was... I've been meaning to tell you that I fixed that blinker issue. Turns out on the XJ the blinkers and running lights share a bulb, but are two separate circuits. turns out the side of the terminal that was for the running lights was broken. Pulled a new one for $1 and it works fine!
Stethoscope
I mean you could just use good pliers.
Heh. Yeah, no. Not for this......