SO today on my 2008 Fit with AT AC The idler pulley came off when the outer dirt shield washer contacted the pulley No clue how but that's what happened or so it seems.
The direction of rotation must be the same as the bolt unscrew threads IDK Strange it if is but fall of might be better than a shredded belt.


I recovered all the parts except the front bushing may go back and look for it or not... BUT I was able to tighten the alternator adjustment screw enough to tighten the belt "enough" I think..

QUESTION has anyone just tightened up the alternator adjustment and not replaced the idler? Seems to work fine but I haven't driven it yet just ran engine after adjustment.AC works Charge light is out so seems good to go.

It idler is a pain in the ass IMO to change so if there is anyone out there that has ran their car without it for extended time/miles I will be more than happy to leave it off.

 

The belt worked perfectly on the way home about 30 miles both city and highway traffic/speeds. SO at this point not going to be in a rush to get the idler put back on...

 

I have. Changing out the idler pulley is very easy and straight forward. Also hammering out the bearing from the pulley is quite easy, it take bearing size 6203, you can get timken, ntn, skf, etc