Aux belt tensioner!? Sounds like a right shed!

[Tucker82]

I think my belt tensioner has had it, sounds terrible!

Engine code is ASV. Its the alternator belt with a kind of drop down metal bracket. The thing wobbles like mad but does stable with revs. Ive had a look on ETKA but can't seem to find the part no. 

It looks like this one
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/2002-MK4-GOLF-2-0-GTI-APK-BELT-TENSIONER-06A-903-315-E_W0QQitemZ380125485167QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM?hash=item58813e986f

Can anyone tell me if this is a common problem and if these tensioners are the same for all engines?

Thanks!

[Tucker82]

Also, Has anybody got a guide to changing one of these?

Ive given my mechanic tooo much money in the past 4 months on this car!

[Jay]

What sort of noise is it making?

Is it at low'ish revs when turning the steering wheel? and is it like a creaking noise?

If it is that noise it could be the clutched pulley (or just a loose belt) on the alternator (~£40) and you can DIY.

You say it wobbles like mad @ idle?

Assuming the ASV uses the clutched pulley on the alternator like the newer PD engines it's probably that, not the tensioner.

The replacement pulley for the alternator is about £40, new belt while you're doing it £20 and to put your mind at ease an idler £???

[Steve_PD]

if its the alternator pulley it will make a chirping sound when you turn the steering wheel as well

[Tucker82]

I haven't got any noise when turning the wheel...

I did notice that the noise died down the other day when you turn the lights off! Could this be the alternator pulley?

The tensioner moves from side to side on idle and stops wobbling as much with revs. The noise is worse when the engine is cold. As it warms the noise gets lower. Its more like a loud fast clicking and is deffo coming from the belt area

Thanks for the help

[Steve_PD]

when my alternator pulley went the noise got louder if I put the lights on or if you turned the a/c on
does it make any noise when your stationary and you turn the steering wheel?

[Tucker82]

when my alternator pulley went the noise got louder if I put the lights on or if you turned the a/c on
does it make any noise when your stationary and you turn the steering wheel?

Haven't tried turning the wheel while stationary, but will give that a go.

The noise does get louder when you turn the lights on. Ive always got the climate control on, so will see if it gets quieter if you turn that off too...

[Jay]

I need to do mine at some point  It's got worse in the 2 months I've had the car...