My air pump pulley (90 300E) is making a racket...the scenario is as follows - the pulley is separating from the air pump (i.e., angling toward the radiator)...my question is - can I simply replace the magnetic clutch ($43 from performance products) and re-align the pulley or will I have to replace the entire pump (big $$$)? I am driving on borrowed time and can almost hear the bearings crunch and melt as we speak...opinions? As always, thanks in advance, Bill

Unplug the air pump if it is not required for smog check in your area and save your money. I have always had to replace the whole air pump cause they lock up.

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euro 287
Mercedes Technician 7 Years (retired to Hyundai)
2000 Dodge Durango
98 Mazda truck

But yes - it is possible to JUST replace the air pump pulley/clutch assembly. If the noise goes away after the car is up to operating temp then the problem is the pulley/clutch assy. If the noise is only there when the engine is warming up then it is the air pump.

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Jim

If it were the clutch pulley assy then it would make noise all of the time. The only time the air pump clutch engages is during cold cranking. So if it makes noise at first in a.m. then you need a air pump.

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euro 287
Mercedes Technician 7 Years (retired to Hyundai)
2000 Dodge Durango
98 Mazda truck