Hey,

My 1998 V-6 4Runner has a bent pulley that attaches to the stock fan clutch assembly. I know it is bent because 1) I can see shaking and 2) the lip of the pulley is cutting into the fan clutch housing attached to the engine block. The fan shaft does not appear to be bent (as I observe no shaking when looking straight down on it). I know there are two pulleys mounted on this fan clutch assembly, one closer to the engine block than the other.

My problem is I don't know whether or not the bearings in the entire assembly are shot, or if it's just pulley lip that is bent. A new inside pulley is about $44 at the dealership, while the whole new fan clutch assembly (which includes both pulleys, bearings, housing, etc.) is like $434!! I'd rather not pay for a whole new assembly if it's just a simple bent pulley.

Does anyone have any suggestions for checking for failing bearings? Is just grabbing the fan clutch assembly and jiggling it looking for movement a good indicator??

Help and THANK YOU to anyone that replies!!

Heebz

 

I would do two things:

1. Remove the belt tension (take the belt off)
2. Evaluate the pulley (closest to the block) and check it for binding/excessive play.

Let us know what you find from there. Good luck.