Ok, so I decided to install a new idler pulley on my 2000 3.0 Flex Ford Ranger 4x4. I ordered the replacement pulley from Ford. So I took off the old one and when I went to install the new one, the bolt that came on the new one was larger than the old one.

So I removed the old bolt from the old pulley and used it on the new pulley. The pulley's were both the same size and the bearing holes were the same as well.

I noticed that the old pulley bolt has a plastic flange around it to align the bolt. Does this part go bad? Should I not be using the old bolt and retaining washer from the old idler pulley?

The part that I ordered from Ford indicated that it was the correct pulley setup for my Ranger.

Thanks for any and all help.

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2000 Ford Ranger
XLT 4x4 V6 3.0 Flex Fuel
Ext. Cab, Blue
146,000 miles

No one has anything to add??

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2000 Ford Ranger
XLT 4x4 V6 3.0 Flex Fuel
Ext. Cab, Blue
146,000 miles

If the part matches, and it fits exactly, then use your old bolt if the new one doesn't fit right.

I think the plastic flange is a dust cover.
If it was there from the factory, why would you question whether it should remain in place when replacing the pulley?

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Dale

2003 XLT Ext Cab. 3.0 2wd. Auto. Current driver.
1996 XLT Reg Cab. 2.3 2wd. Manual. My 1st Ranger.

An expert is someone who knows everything about something they've never done before.