Wheel on fanbelt assembly is about to break?

[kisk]

1995 Camaro 3.4L V6

I was changing my oil today and I noticed one of the wheels where the drivebelt sits is starting to bend outward. I was hoping someone could identify the name of this specific wheel. Do I need to replace the wheel or can I just replace the bolt?

Also, behind the wheel is another object which has taken some damage from the bending. What is this?

Here are some pics:















Any help would be great. Thanks!

[goldz28]

Looks like the belt tensioner to me. If that is it you will need to replace the whole assembly not just the black piece. Get it fixed before it breaks and messes something up, that thing goes could take out other things aswell.

[blindeyed]

Yeah, definitely go ahead and replace it. It's really simple and straight forward. I remember some time ago when I was first changing my belt, I went to loosen the tensioner and the damned thing broke in half. They're definitely not made to last.

EDIT: The entire assembly is called the Belt Tensioner. It includes the wheel itself and the metal bracket behind it. You can pick it up at any auto parts store. I believe you have to take the wheel off first then you can get to the 2 screws that hold the bracket on.

[kisk]

Thanks for the help guys. Was able to pick up a new assembly today ($41) and it installed just fine [5 minutes]. I was able to get the assembly off w/out taking the wheel off first.

I'm glad I replaced it when I did.. after taking off the original I found a little suprise on the backside..
















Thing is cracked all the way thru. I'm suprised it held up as long as it did. Thankfully its taken care of now -- one prob down, many to go.

Thanks very much for the help guys!

[cuda_dude]

wow, never seen one of those break before....

[goldz28]

Nice crack there.