A/C Tensioner Pulley-Right or Left Handed Threads?

[dano670]

When I changed my A/C tensioner pulley I snapped the bolt off. I then tapped the bolt (and very poorly I might add) and replaced with a new larger bolt. Everything was fine for the next year until I had to replace my compressor. I am going to replace the bracket now. I know I can get the bracket from the dealer but judging from the online parts catalog, it doesn't look like I can get the bolt.

The catalog stated the bolt is M8x 35 but does not say if it left handed or right handed threads. Anyone know for certain on the thread direction?

The car is a 95 318ti M42.

Thanks
Dan

[hotdog19d]

Well if you're talking about the tensioner pulley that is bellow the top idler pulley, then it is threaded reverse than most bolts. (I guess that is left-threaded right) I found out the hard way, by shearing it off after reading on a forum that it was threaded normally. As far as I know you can't buy the bolt separately you have to buy the tensioner as the whole assebly. My engine is an m44 by the way.

[dano670]

I successfully changed the idler pulley on the powersteering pump/alternator belt. The problem I am having is with the A/C tensioner pulley (when looking in the engine from the front of the car) at the bottom left of the engine.
Dan

[blkonblk]

if the tensioner tension release bolt were stripped ... How would one go about getting it off.

[lysergicsurfer]

Drill hole in the bolt, use an easy out or bolt extractor.(they are a oversized drill bit with a reverse thread, reversing the drill drives the extractor into the bad bolt and reversing the bolt out.) They are sold, at hardware stores, auto parts stores, maybe walmart. You may need to take the cooling fan off to have room for a drill. When you drill the pilot hole make sure it is smaller then the extractor your using. Make sure the pilot hole is perfectly straight into the bolt. If you go in at a slight angle you can strip the threads on the bolt or hole, and maybe break the bolt leaving part of the bolt deep in the threads. It is a very easy tool to use and can save alot of hard work if done right, take your time. Hope this helps.

[blkonblk]

I'll start my own thread instead instead of hijackin.