234k and got the morning squeaks...

2011 5.7 crewmax 234k
Hoping one of you guys have seen this before and have since repaired the problem.
So one of my pulleys squeaks every morning at cold start some days worse than others even may skip a day I guess weather?
So two weeks ago I ventured to try and locate the source of the noise. Believing it was coming from the bottom left facing the truck around the alt, ps pump & belt tensioner I focused there.
The plan of attack was to prop the belt tensioner where it would loosen the belt just enough where I could manually spin the 3 suspect pulleys, and not one made any really noise of interest
(I've spun bad or going bad car/truck pulleys in my life)
And none was giving any indicator. So that was a waste of time, or so I thought....I released the tensioner checked the belt for alignment and left it alone for the evening. This is where things get weird... The next date at start up, it made no noise at all and didn't for almost two weeks. It's back at it again now. All I did was release the tension on the tensioner pulley then release the tension back. I can't help to think that the tensioner pulley is very suspect and warrants replacement ?
Anyone here had this experience or am I missing something ?
(I'm not a auto mechanic at all) I know just enough to get into trouble lol.

 

I’d replace the tensioner assembly. It isn’t too hard. Mine went out at 90K, so it’s impressive yours has lasted to 234K. It’s one of those common items that needs to be replaced due to wear.

 

I think your right. Should have it done very soon.

 

Might be best to replace the tensioner, idler, belt and be done with it. I bought a Continental Kit and was able to do the whole thing in about 90 minutes.

 

What is a Continental kit ??
Sounds fancy

 

Very much so! It comes with the belt, tensioner, and idler pulley.

 

Mine did the same at like 140k, only on cold starts for 30 seconds or so. Then it got worse to even when it rained. Replaced the tensioner, idler pulley and threw in a new belt while I was in there. Haven't heard a peep since. Those are wear items so just replace them, its a pretty easy job. Use OEM parts. Dayco is who makes them for Toyota and most auto parts stores sells a Dayco kit that includes their belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys.

 

FYI- The OEM tensioner brand is Dayco.

 

UPDATE :
After watching some some web tutorial videos. I took a shot at removing the tensioner pulley Wich happens to be reverse threaded and easily (to my surprise ) removed the rear bearing cover, cleaned the innards thoroughly with some on hand PB BLASTER BREAK FREE & WD40 cleaned out with compressed air till extra shiny. Then repacked with high temp grease that I had laying around next to some marine type grease. Refastened the cover, snaps rite in wiped her clean. Then tested on the truck and man was I happy. This probably isn't the proper long term solution but in a pinch and not wanting to drop 60$ plus tax on a OE Dayco assembly at O'Reilly or Amazon.
I would recommend this to anyone as long as 1. The belt is in good condition and 2. The tensioner spring is still good. Otherwise change the belt and tensioner spring or just buy a whole new assembly.
First time I repack a pulley so should it fail Ill definitely post.
I'm in no way a mechanic so anyone can do this. Difficult scale 1-5 it's a 1.
If you can change your battery or oil you can do this with the correct tools.