I had remembered reading someone's post as to where to buy just the replacement damper for a stock R53 belt tensioner instead of buying/replacing the entire unit.
I can't seem to find the discussion for the link where to buy.
Anyone know/remember?
BTW: I've considered the Alta adjustable belt tensioner damper but have read some pros and cons.
I felt the cons have some merit. Any advice/input welcome on the adjustable damper as well.

BTW²: If I was to consider replacing the entire tensioner - Any recommendations as to what (non OEM),reasonably priced brand you've used with good results?

Thanks!

 

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/min...er-11287509476

im currently running this one, figured the lifetime warranty would be worth the cost. OE part just doesn’t have mini logo. I too have seen just the dampener but can’t remember where. If it pops up again I’ll post it.

 

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-stabilus...88620210d~sta/

this might have been it, for the extra 30 bucks the whole new tensioner made sense.

 

I also have the belt tensioner unit poised for purchase from FCP. I've never had to return a single item when I had spent a little more $$ on their parts.
Kinda sad to see that price on just the dampner on the ECS site. I've always had good results and great customer service with them.

​​​​​​

 

I think ECS price matches if you’re more comfortable with them. I figured it was time just to replace the whole thing. Found I didn’t have the 2 10mm bolts that hold it, so was glad I replaced it, and made a trim to Home Depot for a couple of stainless replacements. My shock lost bushings on both sides making the rattle noise, thought it was header and heat shields.

 

Oh - not to disparage ECS.
But yeah - by comparison shopping, across the board the prices for just the dampners were surprisingly/unexpectedly expensive compared to buying a whole new unit.
I had just upgraded my crank pulley (PRW) and new belt (Gates) last weekend, and put 400mi on without a problem. I changed out my R front wheelbearing yesterday and was warming up the car for a quick shakedown when the (new) belt let loose!
Upon further investigation, I discovered a few crumbling pieces from the lower bushing on the damper had worn out. I'm not sure if that was the cause. I put on the old belt (25k mi) and everything was smooth as silk. Even the belt tensioner and dampner seemed to be in perfect working order. No clattering noise or tumultuous vibration.
Regardless - I'll be buying a new assembly. Better safe than sorry!

 

As you can see I was able to move it over the bolt head.

 

^^^ Good heavens! - I've replaced mine twice (once by the stealership) but have never seen any of mine go bad to that extent.
My current one has 30k +/- and the lower outer edge/lip of the bushing is starting to crumble.
I ordered a new assembly + poweflex damper bushing replacements and a couple of Gates belts for the 15% SC pulley.

 

I think you might have seen one of my previous posts about the belt tensioner damper. Check it out here:
https://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/20...ner_shock.html

 

Ah yes - Now I remember the conversation.
Scroll down. It is listed below this discussion : R50/53 Changing supercharger belt/tensioner options.

Unfortunately (for them), I refuse to ever buy or do business with partsgeek.com ever again (long story: shipped used product, extremely bad flippant customer service, paypal had to step in - Twice!).
I now see my response in that thread pointing to Amazon's listing for the
Thanks guys!

 

Interesting experience - a shame. I've always received great parts and service from them. I also like the fact that they sell both OEM and aftermarket parts. (And, no, I don't have a vested interest.)