How to install new pulleys/tensioner on e46 (year 2000, 323i)

[iown714]

i have a question regarding how to install 2 new pulleys on an e46, year 2000, 323i model with manual transmission.

1. How do i know if i have a hydraulic tensioner VS a mechanical one?

2. ASSUMING i have a hydraulic tensioner, then i would need to purchase two pulleys (the black small plastic wheels, not the big metal ones) one for the A/C and one for the Water pump/power steering. both pulleys are the same and the part number is 11-28-1-748-131-M40 (Adjusting Pulley, used on A/C Belt, Water Pump/Alternator Belt, Center Mounting, For Models with Hydraulic Tensioner). so my question is how do i change these two pulleys? do i need to remove the whole pulley assembly out or can i just change the two small black plastic pulleys while their assembly are still attached to the motor?

3. do i need any special tools for removing the pulleys?

i did change the belts recently and i dont think it's too hard to change the idler pulley but i have no idea how to change the other two's.

thanks a lot.

[Manolito]

I have never done my e46 yet, but a quick look at the parts book indicates that they are substantially similar to the e36s.

What they call a hydraulic tensioner looks like a little miniature shock absorber with a coil spring inside. The pulley for that has a centered hole.

What they call a mechanical tensioner appears to have a spiral spring in it (like a watch spring). The pulley for that has an offset.

I have never replaced a tensioner, just the pulleys, and one of my e36s has 250k miles on it.

[iown714]

thanks for the reply. when i removed my belts i turned both A/C and Water Pump tensioners clockwise and it sounded like it there were springs inside the tensioners. I looked at my tensioner and i didnt see any miniature shock absorber so i think i have mechanical tensioners.

thanks for the info.

[phantomsys]

You have a shock pulley at the bottom it has a nut to remove tension also the top pulley has a center nut I just use that and remove tension the top one.