VT Drive Belt Tensioner Genuine GM or Aftermarket

[nabed4t]

Hey Guys,
Just after some educated opinions about if there are any benefits to going a Genuine GM Drive Belt Tensioner over an Aftermarket like a Gates brand etc.
Holden here are asking for $200 for the Tensioner and $14 and $42 for the Idler pulleys (I have used cheap idler pulleys in the past and know that with them you get what you pay for)

Thanks heaps.

Dan

 

[dirty hands]

$200 is a large wad of cash
if you are happy to change one more often
if needed then go aftermarket ... Gates looks too cheap at $ 24
nason and Dayco brands dont know

Question :is it recommended for a serp belt system
that you change idler and tensioner pullys at the same time ?

you do get some warning if the tensioner is failing

 

[Big-Al]

Gates make good stuff when it comes to belts etc. Dayco are ok too though I have not used any of their products.

It's a pulley on a short arm with a spring in it, not a super high tech bit of kit.
Personally I'd get the aftermarket ones if they will save you cash.

 

[nabed4t]

Thanks for the replies Guys.

Question :is it recommended for a serp belt system that you change idler and tensioner pullys at the same time ?

Is that a question? Or are you just asking why I'm changing the idler pulleys as well?

It's a pulley on a short arm with a spring in it, not a super high tech bit of kit. Personally I'd get the aftermarket ones if they will save you cash.

That's true. But for the huge price difference I wasn't sure if it was just Holdens inflated prices or an indication of quality

Might just go the aftermarket, for the $100 less I think its worth it.

 

[dirty hands]

no its a question to the forum
Question :is it recommended for a serp belt system that you change idler and tensioner pullys at the same time ?

 

[Tasmaniak]

I'm another one for the aftermarket. You won't seen an advantage of the OEM.

 

[Lex]

I just replaced the 3 bearings. 20 min. $35. later, all done.
Lex

 

[profat]

no its a question to the forum
Question :is it recommended for a serp belt system that you change idler and tensioner pullys at the same time ?

perhaps not recommended but advisable...if one bearing is failing it stands to reason the others are getting a hammering too ..however the tensioner does cop the most load... I would change them all.

 

[mpower]

tangent, when you do replace make sure it's fully packed with grease when you put the new one in.

 

[Tasmaniak]

tangent, when you do replace make sure it's fully packed with grease when you put the new one in.

And don't forget to lubricate the belt as well

...Insert evil grin here...


I jokes!