How to Replace an Idler Pulley on a 2001 Dodge Caravan

The idler pulley on the 2004 Dodge Caravan supplies constant tension to the serpentine belt. Because maintenance is rarely performed on the idler pulley, it is common for the bearing inside the pulley to wear out. This could cause the pulley to seize up. In turn, the seized pulley could cause the serpentine belt to heat up and break. If this happens, your Caravan will stop running.

• 1

  Place the 3/8-inch ratchet driver into the square-receiving hole on the Dodge Caravan and pull up on the handle to release tension on the serpentine belt. Pull the belt off the pulley.

• 2

  Remove the two bolts that secure the idler pulley to the Caravan's engine block using a socket and ratchet. Pull the idler pulley out of the engine bay.

• 3

  Place the new idler pulley against the Caravan's engine block, thread the bolts in place with your fingers to prevent cross threading the bolts and then tighten them with your socket and ratchet.

• 4

  Place the 3/8-inch ratchet drive into the new pulley and pull up on the handle. Place the belt over the pulley and remove the ratchet drive from the pulley.