Hi.

Focus Mk1, 1.6, Zetec, 51 plate, with aircon and power steering.

Squeak coming from the auxiliary (serpentine) belt – I think it’s the tensioner. The belt itself is in good condition (about 2 years old) and the tension is good.

When I tried to release the tension (to take off the belt) the nut at the centre of the tensioner turned – but the tensioner didn’t! In fact the nut is easy to turn in either direction but appears to have no effect.

As seen in the photo, there is a washer around the nut – the washer is very loose and turns easily:

http://i409.photobucket.com/albums/p.../Tensioner.jpg

Can anyone suggest what’s going on?

If I can’t release the tension, I would first have to cut the belt. Even then I’m not sure how to remove the tensioner; I can see 3 bolts behind but not sure if that’s all there is to deal with. Advice welcomed.

Here is picture of what I think the whole unit looks like:

http://i409.photobucket.com/albums/p...wtensioner.jpg

Also, any views on the quality of INA (as seen on eBay) products if using instead of Ford replacement?

Cheers

Steve