I have an R53 with about 130k. Don't ahve any obvious problems but the serpentine belt has not been changed and is definitely due to be replaced. Started reading the threads wrt to the job.
1. Do I need tool to removed the tension on the belt for this project?
2. While in there, should I replace the belt tensioner and pulley?
3. Is there anything else I should replace?

Appreciate any comments. Off to Pelican parts to see what is involved.
Ian

 

Yes, you need a tool to release the tensioner. Yes, you should replace it at the same time. At the same time, check the motor mount.

 

You don’t need a tool to take it off, search the web you can’t stick an extension near the pully use that as base leverage , stick a long crowbar on the elbow of tensioner and stick a pin in the second hole

 

I’ve done this a few times - get the tool if possible. Also, check the crank pulley - harmonic balancer. Not sure if that is what you meant by pulley, or if you meant the idler pulley. The harmonic balancer does wear out. It is bonded with a rubber sandwiched in the middle. When that goes, you are finished

 

Plus 1 on the harmonic balancer. Mine died two weeks ago, catastrophic. Mine's got a bit more than 130K.

 

1. Do I need tool to removed the tension on the belt for this project?
Yes, makes it much easier. Top tip: slacken the 16mm nut for the belt tensioner, it will give a better fulcrum point for the tool.

2. While in there, should I replace the belt tensioner and pulley?
Yes, also swap out the idler pulley. If the crank pulley/harmonic balancer never has been changed, swap it. I can highly recommend the ATI super damper, but its quite expensive.

3. Is there anything else I should replace?
Did you perform the big 100k service (supercharger oil etc)?

 

I agree on getting the tool. They're cheap on Amazon. R&R the tensioner and idler pulley. Nothing worse than having to do a job again because a part didn't get replaced the first time,imo.
Also look at your upper mount engine mount. If you see black junk under it, I'd replace it. You're going to have to take off to do the belt anyways.

 

Depends, only the facelift cars have the fluid filled mount if I am not mistaken

 

Thanks everyone. I have a new belt, belt tensioner and idler pulley in hand. Based on comments I think I am going to do the harmonic balancer as well. Form the videos, it looks relatively straight forward. I am guessing the bolt is well torqued on. Once loosened, Did you just push againt the losseneds bolt to pull the harmonic balancer off?
I have not done the super charger oil yet but have repalced the upper motor mount. Mine was one of the fluid filled versions.

WRT harmonic balancer, What is the difference between the version that costs $90 and the version that cost $400+

 

I think this may be the best puller for the crank pulley.

Amazon

Amazon

I think I it’s the same one that way motor works sells, which is generally agreed upon as the best one. I bought a used wmw puller.

A $90 oem style replacement pulley is probably good enough, but if you plan on keeping the car forever the ati is the preferred pulley. Most people who have it say the engine runs smoother. It’s also slightly (0.8%) oversized compared to the stock pulley so I think you get a small increase in boost. I have an ATI sitting in my garage, and I plan on installing it when the weather gets a bit cooler.


check out mod minis video, he uses a claw puller, but he demonstrates how to use the longer bolts to give the center puller bolt a place to press against.

also make sure you replace the crank pulley bolt when you install the new pulley. Replacing the crank pulley ought to simplify the tensioner replacement. You should be able to remove the tensioner after the crank pulley is off without moving the engine.

 

I have that exact tool, its top notch!

And yes, the engine runs smoother with the ATI. To be honest, I thought my Mini was slower after fitting it...At least it felt that way. But the sensation is way different as power delivery was smoothed out for me.

 

I used a 3-jaw pulley tool I rented from AutoZone to remove the crank pulley and used Modminis procedure to remove and replace.
I have a $100 pulley from ECS tuning. Ive only had it on about a year. It slipped right on and could spin around before tightening. I was expecting to have to press it on so that messed with me while doing the installation.

 

What is the replacement interval for the belt tensioner and idler pulley on an R53? The Bentley manual specs how often the serpentine belt should be replaced, but is quiet on an interval for the belt tensioner and for the idler pulley. The manual does not suggest that either should be periodically changed, at least that I am aware of! I know the belt manufacturers (Continental, Gates) both suggest that all three be done at once.

 

That would be my advice as well, the components arent that expensive to change them all at once.