Landrover parts

Rob,
I had the same problem a couple of months ago on my 97 TDI. It was close to $300 for a new tensioner from Alto parts (apparently the price dropped recently from around $400). Anyway I decided to have a go at replacing the bearing which incidently is a very common 6203 2RSR (2RSR = 2 rubber seals). The biggest problem is getting the tamper proof circlip out ( yes i'm afraid LandRover would rather you buy the complete unit ) anyway after struggling for ages to get the circlip out I decided to try and drill a couple of tiny holes in the circlip to allow the circlip pliers to do there job, worked a treat but I did snap one bit as the circlip is high tensile. Use a tiny (1.5mm bit I think) and drill close to the alloy casing as part of the circlip is hidden and you want to be as close to the center as poss. Use the old bearing to tap the new one in or preferably a socket with the same outer diameter as the bearing. Total cost $9.80 for the bearing from Auto One, buy a spare as its the same bearing used in the aircon pulley. If the tensioner is bouncing around the problem is not necesarily the bearing but the belt has overstretched as with mine, check the allignment marks on the tensioner, should be at 10 to rather than 10 past (as with mine) may as well replace the bearing anyway. If the belt has gone make sure you get the Gates belt (7PK1580) as the other generally squeal. Try TR spares at Padstow for Disco parts, some stuff is cheaper but sometimes not much in it.
Cheers
Mark

Rob trw www.fwd.com.au Victoria or
British off road Qld ph 07 54451094
both do mail order at good prices i prefer the qld mob.

I ususally check out the local LR dealers price on genuine parts first. the dealer then goes to a catalogue of a , I presume non- genuine parts supplier. I have not managed to get the name of the company they're very secretive about it and always keep the name hidden I guess they don't want me going direct to this company for parts. From experience they are considerably cheaper on most items. when I crack it for the name i'll let you know. One clue I think it's in Sydney. The best bet is to hunt around a few suppliers until you get the best price.