Gates OAP7073 - alternator freewheel pulley, one-way clutch

Gates OAP7073 - alternator freewheel pulley

The Gates freewheel pulley (alternator one-way clutch) is part of the accessory belt drive, isolating the rotating mass of the alternator rotor from vibrations and jerks coming from the serpentine belt. As a result, the system runs more quietly, and the belt and other drive components wear more slowly.

Use

The pulley is mounted on the alternator shaft in place of a standard rigid pulley. This allows smoother operation at varying engine speeds, especially at start-up and idle, when the belt load changes sharply.

Design advantages

• Reduces the effect of alternator inertia on the whole belt drive
• Eliminates belt slip and the accompanying noise (squeal, rattle)
• Damps vibrations and torque fluctuations
• Extends the life of the V-belt, tensioner and idler pulleys
• Allows the use of higher-output alternators without extra load on the drive

Installation

Replacing the freewheel pulley requires removing the accessory belt and using a suitable wrench (most often Torx) to unscrew the part from the alternator shaft - in many cases a special service tool is needed to lock the one-way mechanism. It is recommended to replace it together with the V-belt if the belt shows signs of wear.

Specifications

Who it is for

The part is intended for car workshops and drivers doing their own repairs, whose alternator makes noise or vibration when the engine is running and diagnostics point to a worn freewheel pulley.