Serpentine Belt Tensioner Lifespan
 

I am going to replace the serpentine belt on our 2002 E320 wagon this weekend. I suspect the belt is original from the factory. It carries GATES as mfr and has the MBz part number on it. It's looking tired.

I can see the replacement is very straightforward. I can move the tensioner very easily....it concerns me a bit and I am wondering how long the tensioner might last. This car has just under 60k miles.

I pulled out my torque wrench and I can start to move the tensioner with just 22ft*lbs of torque which seems low. I don't have any experience with tensioners on these cars and wondered if there is a test to determine if it should be replaced.


Thanks.

If the tensioner doesn't rattle with the A/C on then it is still good!

everthing is quiet, but I had a slight burning rubber smell following a long, fast drive on Xmas Day. I could find nothing else out of order and figured it was a bit of belt slippage.

I'll kick the A/C on and see what happens. i have noticed no unusual noises...just the odor of burning rubber which was faint.

Thanks.

Goodyear Gatorback installed. The belt is super-quiet, I hope it lasts.

No change in noise when A/C is switched on so I won't worry about the tensioner at this time. Life is good! :D

Thx.