I never thought this would happen:


However, I went through the archives and this is a more common problem than I would have thought. Some people get it more than once even.

 

maybe you can build a better one..

https://www.mcmaster.com/#rod-ends/=14yfh2o

 

Find a replacement part on ebay.

 

Check you balance shaft belt, normally when the lower one is out of time the ps tensioner breaks like that

 

^^?????
more likely the tension was being adjusted without loosening the pivot bolts at either end.

 

And the PS pump (or compressor, as the case may be) bolts

 

I've seen lots of those break.

Rennbay can help you out for $30
http://rennbay.com/Power-Steering/94...uster-bar.html

 

...or the pivot bolts were loosened but not retightened after the last adjustment.

 

http://www.paragon-products.com/Powe...347.053.02.htm

+ Priority Mail for a few pennies over $36 total and it's to you by Friday.

 

Thanks. I actually already replaced it with an eBay unit. Just posting here for documentation. And a little whining. And for a place to post when it happens again.

 

I just lost my second AC alternator belt tension strut today. It was only 500 miles since I lost the last one. I dont understand it. I bought the forged one from 944online and used their hardware. I made sure that I didnt tension the strut when everything was tightened. What am I missing? Both times the strut broke at the threads near the drivers side and the hex bar and everything was missing from the passenger side. Maybe the bolt loosened? Maybe I should be using locknuts or loctite or something? Something so simple yet so frustrating. Please help!

 

Just sharing my experience...

 

Sounds to me like you have something else going on... Whether a vibration issue (balance shafts? engine mounts?), an alignment issue, a tension issue, or maybe the compressor is seizing up (putting an unusual stress on the belt?), it sounds like you should do some investigating and change something else before putting another tensioner strut on.

 

I agree these parts do not break in normal operation, usually someone hamfists them and if they are lucky they break the strut rather than the ears off the block or AC compressor or PS pump. I have also heard about the balance shaft alignment being a problem and it is also possible to have issues with the alignment of the strut or accessories themselves.

You may also have damage from previous ham-fisting that is causing a problem. Cracked, bent or broken ears or studs/bolts. Something's not right.

-Joel.

 

I really appreciate the ideas guys. I think vibration is the cause of my broken tensioners. The car is new to me so I dont know what is normal, but I can say that the dash vibration is like a washing machine which cant be normal. I talked to Ian at 944online and he suggested checking my motor mounts and the bushing behind the AC for play. One of the first jobs I did on the car was timing belt and seals. I triple checked the balance shafts for alignment so thats probably not it (car gets smoother wiith higher RPMs). I will report back.