Belt tensioner 103 engine
 

In the process of installing a rebuilt tandem p/s pump on my 91 300TE, I loosened the wrong bolt thinking I was loosening the belt tensioner, stripped the adjustment rod nut threads, and apparently messed up the tensioner itself. I ordered the replacement nut (I repaired the rod threads with a file), and bench checked the tensioner per 13-2452 of the service manual. The tensioner would return to the neutral position after being rotated 30 degrees or so.

With all that back on my 300TE, and what is definitely the correct belt, the tensioner will not put tension on the belt. Not even close, even at the end of travel of the adjustment rod, which will strip again if I turn any farther.

Attached is a pic of the back of the tensioner showing the position of the flattened sides relative to the body of it. Anyone remember how that orientation should be?

Tomorrow I order a new tensioner unless anyone has some other idea.

Thanks, Dave

Picture of new tensioner for reference. Unfortunately, your tensioner appears to be a goner.