I just replaced an alternator in a 97 SOHC - through the wheel well. I
didn't pull the PS so it was a bit tight getting to the top bolt. The
tensioner takes a 14mm wrench.


"Dave" > wrote in message ...
> Wow. If you've gotten that much mileage from those parts,
> you're doing pretty well! The last time I heard a bearing whine from
> under the hood of my SC2, it turned out to be one of the alternator
> bearings. If you take off the right front tire and splash shield, you can
> change the alternator without touching the PS pump. With the tire and
> shield
> removed you can also get to the tensioner and idler pulley.
> The tensioner is easy, but you'll need an offset box wrench
> (I <think> it was 15mm) and some patience for the idler.
>
> Dave
>
> Barry Schnoor wrote:
>
> > Okay, I've narrowed down the whine in the engine...it's either the
> > alternator, the tensioner or the idler pully...and I'm leaning toward
the
> > tensioner or idler pully, since that's where the sound seems the louded.
> >
> > I might just change them all...they're all original with 157,000 miles.
> >
> > Any tricks or hints on the idler pully? Looks like I have to pull the
> > engine mount to do that job.
> >
> > I can do the alternator and tensioner together. Part's aren't very
> > expensive.
> >
> > And...what does the idler pully DO?
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > Barry
>