Noob Q - Pulley/Bearing noise

[TheOtherLeft]

I have a strange rattling noise so I pulled my main belt off and spun some of the pulleys by hand.

This is what it looks/sounds like:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/37534659@N08/5838548946/

The first pulley is the idler. It doesn't sound too smooth. Does it need replacing? What's annoying is that bearing was replaced only a few 000km ago by my mechanic. It's part number is: Nachi 32N2002. Does this seem right as I thought Nachi are a good brand?

The second pulley is the Tensioner pulley and sounds OK.

The third pulley is the power steering pump. Whilst it sounds OK there is a little wobble/movement, maybe 1mm or so. Is this normal? You can see the movement in the video.

The other pulleys - waterpump, alt and A/C sounded/felt fine.

What do you guys think?

Thanks all.

[V.W.Dave]

have you started the engine for a few seconds with the belt off to make sure the noise is no longer there?
This will tell you for sure that it is a drive belt related problem. Remember your engine is very well know for timing tentioner noises.

If it is still there can you post up a video with the noise in it?

[TheOtherLeft]

have you started the engine for a few seconds with the belt off to make sure the noise is no longer there?
This will tell you for sure that it is a drive belt related problem. Remember your engine is very well know for timing tentioner noises.

If it is still there can you post up a video with the noise in it?

It was suggested that I start the engine with no belt on... I'm still not too keen on that.

I've experienced the timing chain rattle before and I then started using Nulon oil flush and doing more regular oil changes. I don't get the t/chain rattle anymore.

When running I only get the rattle at about 2000RPM which is odd to me.

However, for a while I did get the bearing 'squeak' when I touched the accelerator. This 'squeak' has gone and has been replaced with the previously mentioned rattle.

[McLarryBob]

Hey TheOtherLeft, the first pulley defiantly sounds as though it's packed it in. If it's only new take it back to the mechanic because he may still be able to get parts warranty on it from his supplier.
I couldn't hear too much from the 2nd one so i can't say anything for sure and I honestly have no idea about the power steering pump.

I hope I helped a bit.

[V.W.Dave]

have you started the engine for a few seconds with the belt off to make sure the noise is no longer there?
This will tell you for sure that it is a drive belt related problem. Remember your engine is very well know for timing tentioner noises.

If it is still there can you post up a video with the noise in it?

It was suggested that I start the engine with no belt on... I'm still not too keen on that.

I've experienced the timing chain rattle before and I then started using Nulon oil flush and doing more regular oil changes. I don't get the t/chain rattle anymore.

When running I only get the rattle at about 2000RPM which is odd to me.

However, for a while I did get the bearing 'squeak' when I touched the accelerator. This 'squeak' has gone and has been replaced with the previously mentioned rattle.

Starting it without the belt when its cold for only a few seconds(20 secs) will not harm anything. It is a simple check but will narrow down your search. Have you had a good look at the belt?
The idler does sound bad to me but if you can do some FREE checks to be sure its always a good idea.

To add to the fact that you have had tentioner noise problems in the past is more of a reason to check the engine for noises without the drive belt on it.

[TheOtherLeft]

The tensioner and power steering pump pulleys are smooth and no noise when being spun.

I've changed both belts (main and fan) only a few 000km ago and they look OK.

Thanks for the help so far.

[howsie]

I agree with the last posts start it up for about 20 seconds will do no damage and confirm the noise. Probably a bit basic but have you checked all the nuts are tight. Might have loosened up shit.

[RAY185]

That idler is definitely stuffed. Nachi are usually pretty good. As suggested, try and get it done under warranty. Your steer pump pulley freeplay is borderline from what you describe. Keep an eye on it.