Pulley problems

[Demonrox122]

Hey everyone, relatively long time lurker here. I finally got my vr4 back, however all my power steering side pulleys have quite a lot of play, and are making a racket. I've found the idler, but I cant seem to find any information on the pulleys for the A/C compressor (looks like ill have to source a magna compressor) and the power steering pump. if anyone has any ideas I'd greatly appreciate it, I am not too sure what to do.

 

[BCX]

If you take the compressor clutch off the front of the compressor, you'll be able to get a part number off the existing bearing.

Probably just need someone with a press to swap it out.

 

[Demonrox122]

If you take the compressor clutch off the front of the compressor, you'll be able to get a part number off the existing bearing.

Probably just need someone with a press to swap it out.

Cheers, I assume that's going to be the same story for the power steering pump pulley? Just replace the internal bearing instead of trying to chase down a new pulley?

 

[mezje]

Cheers, I assume that's going to be the same story for the power steering pump pulley? Just replace the internal bearing instead of trying to chase down a new pulley?

I think that may depend on which pump you have. My memory is hazy though.

This video may help, the pulley and shaft is one pce from memory

 

[cooperlio]

If your VR4’s power steering side pulleys have excessive play and noise, it’s very likely the bearings inside the idler, A/C compressor clutch, or power steering pump are worn out. The idler pulley is usually serviceable with a standard bearing replacement, but the A/C compressor and power steering pump often require either pressing in new bearings or replacing the entire unit if the bearing size isn’t serviceable. If sourcing a Magna compressor, ensure the pulley offset and electrical connections match. Before reinstalling, inspect belt alignment and tension — running with loose or misaligned pulleys can quickly destroy new bearings again.

 

[cooperlio]

If your VR4’s power steering side pulleys have excessive play and noise, it’s very likely the bearings inside the idler, A/C compressor clutch, or power steering pump are worn out. The idler pulley is usually serviceable with a standard precision bearing replacement, but the A/C compressor and power steering pump often require either pressing in new bearings or replacing the entire unit if the bearing size isn’t serviceable. If sourcing a Magna compressor, ensure the pulley offset and electrical connections match. Before reinstalling, inspect belt alignment and tension — running with loose or misaligned pulleys can quickly destroy new bearings again.

The idler pulley’s bearing can typically be pressed out and replaced with a new one, but the A/C compressor and power steering pump may need full replacement if their internal 331156 G bearings aren’t serviceable. If you plan to fit a Magna compressor, double-check pulley alignment, offset, and electrical compatibility. Always verify proper belt tension and alignment during reassembly — any misalignment or overtightening can cause premature bearing wear and repeat the problem quickly.

 

[Demonrox122]

Cheers for the advice guys, I'll have to update you when I've got them in bits. I'll see if I can't record the process!