Are you using a deep well or shallow socket? You could remove the tensioner and install the pulley on the bench and then reinstall back on the car. I angled the torque wrench to have leverage horizontally to prevent skinning my hands installing the tensoiner. What do you think of the Dayco pulley? I try to stay with the original equipment until is see that it is crap and honestly I was close to it. We will see! If it begins to give me a hard time again I may do it your way.

 

Pull the fan assembly and you'll have plenty of room. Use cardboard to protect the radiator.

 

I have info on my page on how to remove the fan assembly. http://www.gusglikas.com/AutoRepairTherHousing.htm

I hope it helps.

 

Doesn't sound like a idler or tensioner pulley bearing. Sound like the steering pump. However it is a good idea to replace those pulleys anyhow.

 

Update: got my new tensioner w/pulley from the dealer, $104 +tax. Its a different design, pulley isn't as wide, and comes with a new bolt...mount isn't as wide, nonetheless, it went on just fine and belt looks secure. I decided to risk the knuckle scrapes and didn't remove the fan assembly. My old drive belt had around 55k miles on it, but it looked really good actually...but I changed it out since I purchased a new one.

Turned it over, and the bearing noise is still there. Got my ear down there real close since the hood was at 90degrees (makes it much easier to 'hear' up front) and am 99% sure its the water pump. Now remember I told you this is a new water pump replaced by my dealer, well I went into my service records, and it was replaced February 28, 2009... looks like it should be covered by the manufacturer for a year, so taking it in soon.

 

Before you change anything get yourself a mechanics stethoscope. I found my noise came from my alternator. It was working just fine, just made a lot of noise that I thought came from the tensioner and or the water pump. Try not to guess it can be painful and expensive.

 

x2 Sears sells them as does Advance Auto. The end is a metal rod that you poke at what you want to listen too. Works great for sounds like this. My money is still on your steering pump.

 

Update: I just got a call from the independent shop, turns out the power steering pump was making all of the noise, but it wasn't because it was failing. On the other side of the engine bay, there was a fitting that blew out the o-rings, and was leaking power steering fluid. Pump was going dry and making lots of racket.

O-rings replaced and fluid refilled, pump is now quiet.

I have an extra Dayco idler pulley if anyone wants it. Just pay for shipping. Also, remember I replaced my tensioner w/ pulley for a new part, but that wasn't the problem...so I have the old unit if anyone wants that as well.

 

Just a reminder, my old belt tensioner w/ pulley, and old idler pulley are available to anyone who wants them...just pay shipping. Remember, they weren't the problem.

Also, if I were to do this again, I might give Energy Suspension bushings a shot, maybe last longer and perhaps stiffen up the response, if only just a hair.

 

If you do go with poly sway bar bushings, get the grease-able style. But i don't know what that has to do with a steering pump sound and pulley replacements.

 

Doh! Wrong thread..meant to put it in my sway bar thread.

Good call on the steering pump SilverXJ.