drive belt tensioner replacement?

2008 TOYOTA CAMRY
162,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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ED MAGDALENO
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I am changing the belt tensioner on my car listed above. The new tensioners come with what looks like a little Allen wrench in the thin piece of metal inside the spring. The original tensioner does not have this piece. I assumed it was just there for shipping, but I could not remove it easily. Is this piece supposed to stay there? It doesn't seem right to me, but I couldn't for the life of me remove it.
Aug 3, 2024 at 7:12 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Anything is possible. Could you take a picture of what you are referring to and upload it for me to see?

Also, does the allen wrench thing hinder installing the new tensioner? I ask because chances are it should be there. Since it is an aftermarket part, could have a different design but does the same thing.

Let me know. If possible, a picture should help.

Take care,

Joe
Aug 3, 2024 at 8:16 PM
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ED MAGDALENO
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Thank you for the reply. I attached a picture of the exact part I installed. It seemed to install fine, but when I compared the two parts on the ground, the lower attachment point was in a different spot. (the Allen wrench thing is holding it up a little). That's what led me to believe it needed to come out. The other thing that makes me nervous is that after installation the top of this Allen wrench thing is within 1/8 of an inch of the belt.
Aug 4, 2024 at 7:46 AM
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ED MAGDALENO
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Thank you for the reply. I attached a picture of the exact part I installed. It seemed to install fine, but when I compared the two parts on the ground, the lower attachment point was in a different spot. (the Allen wrench thing is holding it up a little). That's what led me to believe it needed to come out. The other thing that makes me nervous is that after installation the top of this Allen wrench thing is within 1/8 of an inch of the belt.
Aug 4, 2024 at 8:02 AM
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ED MAGDALENO
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Update: Okay, so after messing with it again this weekend I've determined that it definitely does need to be removed. You will not get the proper belt tension within it. It seems that the Allen wrench pin is only an aid to allow easier installation. The pin is easy to remove after installation by applying pressure to the tensioner as if you were installing or removing the belt. (Toyota part# 16620-0H021).
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Aug 11, 2024 at 8:01 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Thank you for the updated information. I know It will help others in the future.

Looking at the pictures you attached, I've never seen a screw in that location. Perhaps it is the manufacturer's design.

Regardless, I'm glad to know you resolved the issue. Take care and feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Joe
Aug 11, 2024 at 10:39 AM