What parts do I need to get this done? Fastlane lists an idler pully and I believe an idler tensioner? Or something along those lines. How long would I be looking at to do this task? I know I need a belt, what else? The car has an intermittent squeal. Is it like newer American cars (or at least GM) that you just need a break-over bar with something like a 15mm at the end?
Thanks
David

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2000 Honda Accord V6 137k miles

1972 300SEL 4.5 98k miles

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Yes, many American cars have a simple spring loaded tensioner that is loosened with a bar. Very simple.

Unfortunately the M103 tensioner is more complex, but not too bad. There is a damper that usually doesn't need to be replaced and a tensioner with the pulley on the arm. This is the part that typically needs replacing.

You should first loosen the big bolt through the middle of the tensioner, then see if the pointer is at smallest point of the inclined plane shaped marker. If the tensioner will not tension to the narrow part of the marker, then the tensioner is probably bad. You really would be best served by getting a manual or CD that will have illustrations.

Good luck,

I remember doing this job a couple of years ago, when I first started working on these cars. In retrospect, I think the procedure required a little more skill than I had at the time, however, if you have all of the parts, tools, and a full weekend (just in case), I think it is a reasonable DIY job.

I disagree with Larry Bible here, and would recommend replacing the damper with the belt tensioner, only because these do wear out, and in order to replace them you have to go most of the way through the disassembly anyways, so you might as well put a new one in there.

My write-up is here, however I also recommend the CD for the illustrations. Also, do a search through the archives as well.