Idler Pulley

[Charles W.]

I have the idler pulley off my 1970 LS5. When I spin the wheel, I can feel roughness in the bearing. Zip sells a replacement bearing for about $85. I was looking on Ebay and an original used idler pulley is priced at $450 plus. I would hate to mess up my original so what is involved in pressing out the old bearing and installing a new one?
Thanks for your response.

[Joe L.]

Re: Idler Pulley

I have the idler pulley off my 1970 LS5. When I spin the wheel, I can feel roughness in the bearing. Zip sells a replacement bearing for about $85. I was looking on Ebay and an original used idler pulley is priced at $450 plus. I would hate to mess up my original so what is involved in pressing out the old bearing and installing a new one?
Thanks for your response.

Charles------


I wouldn't even consider buying a used example of this 69-74 idler pulley assembly. First, how do you know the bearing is any better than the one you have? Even if it's OK when you get it, how do you know how much life it has in it?

It's really not all that difficult to replace the bearing/shaft assembly in these units. You do need a press (or, access to one) for the job. Or, you could have a machine shop do it for you. You can also purchase a complete reproduction idler pulley assembly for less than $200.

[Charles W.]

Re: Idler Pulley

Joe, thanks for your response. I sure the one I have is better than any I would find on Ebay. I think the bearing replacement might worth a try.

[Tom L.]

Re: Idler Pulley

I replaced the bearing a while ago. At the time I had to get it from a corvair site. Not exact, but functional. All I can say is measure depths on everything so when together it aligns with all the mess way down there😁

[Mark E.]

Re: Idler Pulley

I installed a reproduction pulley a few years ago. Works perfect and besides plating that's probably nicer than original, it looks identical to the one removed.