I am thinking mine is dying here as the compressor will slip a bit on higher RPM upshifts, belt has less than 10k on it. Tensioner was replaced Dec '03 at 210k, I am now at 306k.
It is tensioned properly and I have that little plastic pointer on it too. Shifts are not banging or anything like that. They are quick and smooth thanks to that Superior-Transmission kit installed.
Now this is on the 300SEL W126, so with a 3.46:1 rear diff it turns about 3500rpm at 70mph so most accessories wear faster than most vehicles. Pulleys sound found, just thinking about the strength of the tensioner itself.
Thoughts? Opinions? Jeers?