I have a vibration problem with my 98 e300...

How do I check if an idler pulley, power steering pump or fan clutch pulley is bad? I removed the belt and all turn to some degree.

*PS pump turns freely, but will not spin or freewheel
*idler pulley turns freely (not as much as PS pump), but will not spin or freewheel
*fan pulley turns freeley- same as idler
*AC pulley? (below PS pump) spins very easily and freewheels when let go.

any suggestions?
How free/ tight should they spin?

see for full description
e300 rough idle? air leak? help?

thanks in advance
Phil

__________________
Phil
Previously loved
variety, but I miss the 99 F350 PSD- 37k, traded, damn

Current stable
98 E-300 TurboDiesel, 253k
http://www.facebook.com/people/Philip-Underwood/762882374

Phil:

they should all turn with no grinding, binding, or roughness. Only AC pulley will spin freely as it's not connected to anything with the clutch non-energized. The fan bearing should be almost as free, but will likely have more drag and not spin that much. If it takes any appreciable effor to turn the fan bearing, it's likely shot as it only holds the fan up. The water pump is separate.

WP and PS pump will NOT freewheel as they are working at their normal "job" -- pumping PS fluid and water.

Again, any roughness, binding, or lateral play means replace.

I would also replace the belt -- a bad belt can sound like a bad journal bearing!

Peter

__________________
1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!

thanks peter.

this is one less thing for me to check then. You described the situation pretty well as is.
The belt isn't too old and a PITA to get around the fan- it probably has another year left.

__________________
Phil
Previously loved
variety, but I miss the 99 F350 PSD- 37k, traded, damn

Current stable
98 E-300 TurboDiesel, 253k
http://www.facebook.com/people/Philip-Underwood/762882374