Idler Pulley Replacement - ( Don't Leave Home Without One )

Make sure you carry an idler pulley replacement if you drive a GU Nissan Patrol.
The Nissan Patrol Idler Pulley on the ZD30 engine is known for failing when you least expect it. Don't leave home without an idler pulley replacement.
The idler pulley or tensioner pulley as they are also known on the Nissan patrol, powers the accessories such as air conditioning, power steering, the alternator, and water pump.
If the tensioner pulley seizes and you don’t have a replacement idler pulley and belt, you can be in a lot of trouble.
As soon as you hear the idler pulley pulley making a squeaking noise, it's time to consider a replacement pulley.
A worn-out pulley bearing in the tension pulley can also cause squeaking or a chirp sound.
As soon as you begin to hear those sounds, have the idler puller changed straight away on your Nissan patrol ZD30.
I carry a complete spare tensioner puller and mounting plate, plus a spare pulley belt.

[@theozBandit]

Great info Tim! The reason these fail is..water washing grease out of the bearing. This usually happens after rain and puddles. Then once its starts squeeling, over next 24/48hrs, surface rust starts on the pully, where the rust then causes fruction and the heat then melts the pulley. There is 2 sizes,...one is for.. 2000 to 2006 DI ZD30 engines, and the other is for... 2007 to 2017 CRD ZD30 engines. NOTE...if you get a new one, add extra waterproof grease before installing. Furthermore, when doing a service, grease it also. BELT...SAME goes with this... ALSO has two sizes,.. 2000 to 2006 with DI ZD30 and the other is.. 2007 to 2017 with CRD ZD30

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Yeah that bearing is mounted low down on the motor, and it gets all the mud and dust coming through. Once that bearing starts squealing, needs to be replaced asap. Thanks mate for your detailed reply. Cheers Tim.

[@medveds1]

Thanks mate, after so many "fixes in a can" vids it was good to finally get the correct info. Unfortunately my '06 had the latter model tensioner on it which has the larger pulley wheel on it, 2 belts later I finally got a hold of a new tensioner and the correct belt to suit, bit of a run around but sorted. Really appreciate your video. Thank you.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Steve, Yeah mate. There’s a couple of sizes in pulleys. That’s great the video helped you out. I greatly appreciate your feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@duncs5865]

Hey Tim nice work mate. My 07 GU is up to 420k KM and I’m on my third belt tensioner. I’ve had the bearing seize on one.The top piston bush go on another and the whole piston come apart on the third. Always have a spare after the first let go but another tip is the small bolt at the top of the piston is also good to carry as a spare. Snapped mine at 2am on the side of the track and it was a mongrel to get out !

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Mark, Yeah they are a big problem if the pulley lets go and you don't have a spare setup. Thats a top idea about carrying a spare top bolt as well. It's a spare that every Nissan GU owner should be carrying just incase. Cheers Tim.

[@timmoss1481]

Hey ba8sy. Mate this problem is exactly the same with the D22 nav with the ZD30 motor I had mine for 6 yrs and replaced 5-6 nearly one a year but I was doing a lot of is towing for work and pleasure and 4wding on top of that. So if any of your followers have a D22 with the 3lt I’d definitely suggest carrying one. The full assembly from memory wasn’t very expensive either and was quicker to change. I will say this I mostly bought genuine but I did buy one from repco and it did last a little longer. Happy travels all.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Tim, I had a couple of the 3ltr D22;s before buying the Patrol. The pulley was one thing that i didn't get around to replacing. Some good after market options are coming out from many of the comments coming through. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Batesy.

[@timmoss1481]

It’s funny that my mate was the same he had 2 of them and no issues mine far out I should have bought shares in a baring company

[@Leon-lp9fl]

Great topic Tim, just in general, had to replace my Thar,s manual tension pulley squealing and alternator(witch hardly charged) because of bearing noise, when opened was so badly soldered and messed up by a previous fix, was not repairable. Moral of the story - Pulley = $20, Lucas alt = R 4600 = $480 +-(difficult to obtain), new NISSAN 2.5 diesel alt with minimum mods R 1450 = $150, it has a oil pump at the back, supplies the turbo(available all over) Great little Jeep - gets every where and very basic to work on. Cheers.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Yeah as soon as those pulleys start making a noise, replace them straight away. Good few options there with costings. Cheers Tim.

[@bigfella6629]

Replaced my idler pulley on my 03 GU ZD30 mid 2018 with a $45 aftermarket one from ebay and its still going strong, bugger paying over $300 from Nissan for one.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Thats great feedback on the after market pulley still going strong. Cheers Tim.

[@bigfella6629]

@@timbates4wdadventuresI've always used aftermarket parts on all my vehicles I've owned and never had dramas, genuine parts are a bloody ripoff and a complete and utter rort.

[@juliog3190]

Great video Tim one question please I have seen that these hydraulic tensioners are usually a headache, at least in mine, one is giving me one, the hydraulic fluid leaks out, as I change the air compressor I need a bigger belt and I can't manage to give it the right one, I feel that it is too tight The question is that my tensor rubber bands are beginning to crack and liquid is escaping. I want to adapt a mechanical tensioner, what do you think? Did you see or do you know if it can work? Has anyone you know already done it?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, I've just replaced my tensioner and belt a few months ago. I did go with the genuine setup again. I've not had a problem ever with oil leaking form the piston. Apparently, there's an after market pulley, i don't know anyone with that setup to comment on how good they are. Maybe look into that mate. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim

[@nickhalit3655]

Hey!! It’s the kids you met at heyfield near dargo!!!!!

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Nick Halit Gday guys, Thanks very much for coming over and having a chat. I greatly appreciate it. You guys have a top week in Dargo. It’s a great town. Thanks again. Cheers Batesy.

[@einfelder8262]

Mine went at ~35,000k. Most of that was High Country, Googs Track, Sompson desert twice. The bearing went and the nylon eyes in the damper also flogged out. The dampers used to be made in Europe somewhere and were pretty good, but then Nissan moved to China for them and the eye bushes became complete junk. So we turned up some bronze bushes to slip in and secured them with a grub screw through the casting. 40,000k and they are working fine. The bearing in the pulley can be replaced easily with a quality bearing from the local bearing shop. There are 2 sizes and 2 belts - a longer belt for the larger pulley. I think the big pulley was on the DIs and the CRDs have the smaller one. But hey, it's a Nissan, so it could have either :) I picked up a genuine unit cheap and carry that as a spare, plus a spare piston and a spare pulley with bearing shop bearing I put in, and a spare belt of course :) .

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Ein, Seems like there's quite a few after market options available going by a number of other replies from people. They seem to be better options. I'll still carry a spare genuine pulley and mount as a good back up. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.

[@michaelcoetzer7013]

Hi there. Would be keen to know what spares you carry generally and on big trips. Maybe a video on the ZD30?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Michael, Yeah top idea mate. I should look at making a video on what you have asked. See how i go mate in making up a spares video. Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim

[@DJ-mq6tx]

Love your content! I find it so useful especially as I'm a 3.0L patrol owner

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Thats great you are finding some of my videos helpful. Thanks for your reply and feedback. Cheers Tim.

[@davo8955]

Bit of a mission to do in the bush. Fan shroud and fan to come off before you even get started isn’t it?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, It sure is a mission to replace out in the bush. Lucky i have only had to replace one out in the bush. Change them over as soon as they start to make any noise. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.

[@adamjones2025]

I know i have been commenting on another video you did about a oil change tim, where i stuffed up and spilled oil by mistake on my main belt (now have a genuine one to replace it with as mr nissan said once you get oil on them kiss it goodbye as the dealership mechanics told me a he learned this the hard way, NOW i had a Mitsubishi pajero NM 3.5 ltr v6, it had a automatic tensioner and it was around the $450-600 mark so i said a nice swear word out loud lol, But i took off the idler pulley and went into my local bearing place and they gave me 2 plus showed me how to repair them. saves big money. I could repair my old Pajero blind folded their was not much i didn't replace or fix on it, About 15k in total spent on parts etc. SO i bought a new Nissan Patrol as you know y61 zd30 (2015). Now i have to learn new skills. MY question is, How hard is it to replace that main belt on the Patrol?? because i have to clean all pulleys and check that idler pulley too lol. Sorry for the long winded comment tim!!

[@adamjones2025]

Sorry Tim found your article online will help out heaps.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Adam, Ahh thats not good you have to change out the belt due to oil spilling on it during an oil change. The idler pulley is well worth checking for sure while you haver that belt off. Sounds you are sorted mate for getting the pulley and belt changed. Let me know if you have any further questions mate on the mighty ZD30. Cheers Tim.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

@@adamjones2025 Answered above mate., Cheers Tim.

[@adamjones2025]

@@timbates4wdadventures Cheers Tim, Yeah mate my Patrol has done only 43-44K on it so she is still like new lol.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

@@adamjones2025 unreal mate having one with such low Ks. Mine is about 300000 Ks in front of yours. Lol.

[@reubenadams1423]

My pulley has slight play in it side to side should there be no play ?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

I would have it replaced mate. Cheers Tim

[@andrewevans9326]

Well done Tim, got a cure for this problem though, buy a CRUISER.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Andrew, Hahahah :-) I'l stick with the Patrol and faulty idler pulley for a little longer. Lol Cheers Tim.

[@RC3Dflownwithpassion]

That's most likely why your Patrol engine overheated Tim!! Those tensioners you need to watch well.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Yeah maybe. They can fail at any time and they need changing as soon as they start making any noises. Cheers Tim.

[@pooshoe100]

Hey Batesy, Had one replaced under warranty with Nissan at 13,000 km and now at 30,000 km it’s started to leak oily grease and squeal at low revs and aircon on. My bad luck I guess. Would buy another genuine Nissan one, but not sure if the genuine or aftermarket would make a difference atm. Cheers

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, Gee, that’s no good having one go at only 13000ks. I’ve always replaced my idler pulley and belt with genuine Nissan replacement. There is a few after market options available, but I still stick with genuine. Thanks mate for your reply. Cheers Tim.

[@bozman82]

Hey Tim, Mine squeaks - but it only squeaks when I turn the air-con on and also the fans… I will replace the idler pulley, but do you think I should replace any other pulleys while I am it? Would this squeak still be from the idler pulley do you think? Cheers for the video?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate If it’s only squeaking when you use the AC, maybe it’s the pulley on the compressor that’s going. I’d have both checked. Because if the AC pulley seizes your in trouble the same as if the idler pulley seizes. One belt drives everything. So check them out. Hope that helps mate. Cheers Tim

[@whitedogproductions6153]

Cheers Tim...

[@timbates4wdadventures]

No worries mate. Cheers Tim

[@rockbiterhd]

Nissans have more issues than that just bring a tilt tray

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Thats not always the case. Cheers Tim.

[@rockbiterhd]

Tim Bates 4wd Adventures i know just the old tojo nissan rivalary

[@timbates4wdadventures]

@@rockbiterhd I know mate. Its all in good fun.

[@davo8955]

Gotta have the Nissan’s out there for Cruiser recovery.

[@rhysdowsett9725]

Fabwitz manual tensioners will get you out of the sh@t if the stock ones dies.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Seems like theres a few good after market options for the pulley now. I will check out a few for sure. Cheers Tim.

[@boostbogan]

@@timbates4wdadventures I had one on mine and it ended up snapping the adjuster bolt. I have recently re fitted it with a high tensile threaded rod instead so we'll see how it goes this time

[@samshaw587]

Fabwits make a manual tensioner wich is apparently the business

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Sam, I will have to check them out, as quite a few people have mention that place. Cheers Tim.

[@samshaw587]

Yea mate there’s a Facebook page called zd warriors you should check out lots of good info and parts

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Sam Shaw Thanks for that mate. 👍

[@DaveOLoughlan]

How often do u need to replace them i replace mine on my 2010 gu bout 12mths ago n something squeeking life of me i cant work it out think time 4 the mechanic

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, There's probably no time frame on when the pulley needs to be changed. But, if the pulley on your GU is starting to make noises, I'd be replacing it. Maybe get your mechanic to check it out and make sure that is where the noise is coming from. Cheers Tim

[@geoffreywieck4463]

just replaced mine started with squeeky noise ,pulled bottom off fan shroud and found the tensioner ram flogged out had to remove it with tension on the belt , but had it off and new belt and tensioner on in 2hrs , all from under neath you just remove lower fan shroud and with sockets and breaker bar then rachet rings no dramas, the minor problem if ypu are doing it by myself was holding the tension closed with 19 mm and breaker bar and slipping new belt on, hint here is to leave new belt lay in the sun for awhile it makes it more flexable

[@estherrai9730]

Hey mate how to fix losing power and black smoke

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Check to make sure one of your intercooler hoses hasn't come loose. Make sure the hose clamps are tight. You might need to get a mechanic to check it out. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.

[@handymandev03]

Well Tim, my hydraulic tensioner failed yesterday on my gu patrol 2015. Only done 47k on the clock but the hydraulic tensioner started leaking oil already. So I went to Mr Nissan and ordered a new belt and complete tensioner pulley assembly. I plan on rebuilding the other one so I have a spare for the future. But your spot on about keeping a spare. I've been watching your channel for a few years and your advice is on the money. Cheers mate. Adam

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Adam, Yeah they can fail at anytime. Good thing you had your pulley replaced. Keeping a full assembly and spare belt is well worth having. Thanks heaps mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim

[@teesharose]

Do you know much about the 2.8 idler pulley seems like we are missing something but we can’t figure it out doing a full engine rebuild and it’s stopping us at the moment with putting back together

[@timbates4wdadventures]

No I don’t sorry. Not sure if they operate the same way as the one on my motor. Cheers Tim.

[@bashka5743]

G'day mate hope you've been well? I only hear a squeak when I'm about to put it in gear and when I have the steering wheel lock to the right that's when I hear something I just change the water pump on it last night and I put a new belt on do you think I need to change the pulley your feedback means a lot to me mate Cheers 🍻

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, If you haven’t changed the idler pulley for a while, it would be well worth changing. Generally they squeal all the time when they are going. Any noise like that, I’d be changing. Hope that helps mate. Good luck with stopping the noise. Even get a mechanic to check it out. Cheers Tim.

[@bashka5743]

Thanks mate Love the channel hope one day to hit the tracks with your mate Thanks again

[@timbates4wdadventures]

@@bashka5743 thanks mate.

[@Swwa89]

Legend mate have litterally just had mine and the belt replaced been wondering what that squeal was for a while was hoping it wasn't ANOTHER dreaded warped manifold and gasket which no doubt will be another video!!!

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Thats great you have replaced yours when you began to hear the tell tail signs. Good thing it was only the tensioner pulley and not something worse. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.

[@dylandylan11731]

Is there any advantage to pressing out the bearing and replacing it with a double sealed bearing with some good quality grease in the race of bearing? Seems to me that would stop the water ingress and potentially last a lot longer ? No?

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday mate, I’ve sure not tried that option. I’ve heard of people buying an aftermarket bearing, which is meant to be a better option. I just like staying with genuine parts. Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim.

[@boostbogan]

Been through 14 of them since 2012 haha. If you like mud, they like tensioners and aircon bearings. My last one lasted 2 years and a Tassie trip though

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day David, Yeah mate, mud will destroy those engine components very quickly. They are all down very low. Im only on my 4th one in 11yrs. Cheers Tim.

[@jimmaier3600]

fixed a couple for customers

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Yeah right mate. They can be a problem. Cheers Tim.

[@craigwillis3372]

Thanks mate as always...do I need one of these for my STX ?? Hopefully not !!

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Craig, Not sure about your D40. Ask the guys in Mansfield mate, they will sort you out on that one. Cheers Tim.

[@craigwillis3372]

@@timbates4wdadventures My mates at Martins Garage will tell for sure but doubt I will need one...stay safe and well mate and keep up the great work !!

[@jimmaier3600]

evening tim

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate.

[@adambates2768]

my Commodore does it get quality part not cheep eBay crap

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day Adam, Thats the go for sure mate. Quality pays every day. Cheers Tim.

[@einfelder8262]

You tell us, don't ask us :)

[@scowievideos7931]

Mate great video my 03 GU 3.0l makes a squeal as it takes up the load from releasing the clutch. I did end up spilling a bit of oil on it during the last service.

[@scowievideos7931]

But my father in law replaced the bearing in the pulley a yr ago

[@timbates4wdadventures]

G'day mate, Thanks mate for checking out the video. Its a big one for Patrol owners. Cheers Tim.

[@timbates4wdadventures]

I've been looking for options like that.

[@scowievideos7931]

@@timbates4wdadventures yeah married the right woman Batesy her old man is an engineer and so is her younger brother.... Keep up the good work mate

[@dylanmoncrieff8180]

Great video bates, do you k ow where to get the pully From

[@timbates4wdadventures]

Gday Dylan, I always use genuine Nissan with parts like that. Hope that helps mate. Cheers Tim.

[@dylanmoncrieff8180]

@@timbates4wdadventures thankyou that helps quite a lot 😊

[@andykent5569]

As Tim said, for this particular part only go genuine. Also need to get specific for the Di or Common rail, differences between the 2 assemblies

[@einfelder8262]

You can go genuine but go to your local bearing shop and get a quality Japanese bearing - they are dead easy to put in. You get a new pulley for peanuts compared to Nissan price. The genuine ones are nowadays from China.

[@andykent5569]

You can absolutely do that, but handy to have the whole genuine assembly, can't change the hydraulic part of the tensioner at the locsl bearing shop on the cheap unfortunately. The hydraulic arm is jusy as prone to failure