2003 Camry Drive Belt / Tensioner Problems

[PaulW]

I recently replaced the drive belt tensioner on my 2003 Camry ACV36R as the old one had developed excessive up and movement whilst the engine was running.
After I installed the new tensioner I found it very difficult to replace the drive belt. The drive belt itself was not replaced as it was still in good condition after a recent water pump replacement.
Using a 19mm socket and a long breaker bar I compressed the tensioner as much as reasonable possible without breaking the 19mm lug off the tensioner.
A common issue according to a number of YouTube videos I consulted.
I found a hack on YouTube using a zip tie to hold the belt onto the crankshaft pulley, whilst turning the crankshaft, which worked but the belt was quite tight.
The new (aftermarket) tensioner appeared to be doing its job as the belt and tensioner were now quite smooth with very little up/down movement at the tensioner pulley wheel.
This lasted for about a week when the old up/down vibrations came back. 
At this point I am not sure about the next step. I checked all the accessory pulleys for smooth operation without any noise or binding when fitting the new tensioner so I don't think they could be the source of the problem.
The only other thing that comes to mind is that when installing the new tensioner, I could not compress it as far as the old one making it difficult to replace the drive belt.

Options that come to mind are:
1. Replace the drive belt with a longer one. Currently have 7PK1935 fitted, could go to 7PK1940.
2. Replace the hydraulic tensioner module in the drive belt tensioner with a genuine Toyota one.

Any thoughts on this, Camry lovers?

Regards

Paul
 

[Tony Prodigy]

Unfortunately some aftermarket parts just don't do the job properly. It seems that the tensioner assembly cannot depress enough to get the stock belt on. I would not change the belt size but perhaps seek out an original tensioner and go again. Sometimes aftermarket parts are cheap for a reason. This is probably a good example of that. The never ending grief.
Sometimes it pays to pay a bit extra and put your mind to rest.

[KAA]

Totally true Tony, I had my Belt Tensioner and Drive Belt replaced and went Genuine only as it has lasted now 14 years so why risk a cheaper part.

When Toyota has a warranty and reputation for their reliable parts I will not risk going non genuine for any major components.

So I would have suggested the same thing bite the loss of the cheap part and stick with Genuine only.

KAA

[Tony Prodigy]

12 hours ago, KAA said:

Totally true Tony, I had my Belt Tensioner and Drive Belt replaced and went Genuine only as it has lasted now 14 years so why risk a cheaper part.

When Toyota has a warranty and reputation for their reliable parts I will not risk going non genuine for any major components.

So I would have suggested the same thing bite the loss of the cheap part and stick with Genuine only.

KAA

You can still get Toyota Genuine Parts if you are prepared to dig. Forget the local dealerships. Their mark up is ridiculous. Ask me how I know..

I have had good dealings with Amayama. Their prices are significantly cheaper that the local stealers. 
Ebay has sometimes be a good source too.
 

 

[PaulW]

Hi Tony
Thanks for your advice. I will certainly try Amayama next time I need parts for my Camry.
Meanwhile the Camry is going to my friendly local mechanic tomorrow for him to try and sort it out as I have several other cars in my collection that need my attention.

Regards

Paul
PS How do you know about the ridiculous markup.

[Tony Prodigy]

16 hours ago, PaulW said:

PS How do you know about the ridiculous markup.

I got prices from my local dealership and compared to Amayama and it was a stark difference. Believe me. The local stealers are stealers for a good reason and they have no shame.

Sometimes, and I mean sometimes, they will offer a few bits and bobs on Ebay if they need to clear some space, but that's all you'll get. If you intend to buy over the counter, be prepared to donate a kidney.