C43 fanbelt idler problem
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
1998 C43 estate
C43 fanbelt idler problem
Has anyone attempted to change their c43 idler pulley? Mine is making an unpleasant noise, so having bought a spare from the MB dealer for £20.00, I attempted to change it. Having removed the belt, I found that the pulley is held in place by a long Torx headed bolt - which could not be removed as it is longer than the space between the water pump and the rear of the radiator.Will I have to remove the radiator or is there an alternative solution?
Any advice appreciated.
Any advice appreciated.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
1998 C43 estate
Successful repair
I have managed to replace the idler pulley on my C43 without draining or removing the radiator. The trick is to unbolt the centre part of the top rail which then allows the radiator to move forward a bit - followed by removal of the right headlight & loosening of its metal support bracket (6 screws)which will then allow the radiator to move that last little bit necessary to allow the pulley bolt to come out of the water pump housing & be removed. Rebuilding is achieved by replacing all screws & parts in the correct order & took me an hour or so. I now expect the car to go for another 100,000+ miles without failing.
