Is idler pulley the same as the tensioner pulley?

2009 Tacoma 2.7l 4 cylinder engine with 48,000 miles on it.

Replaced the serpentine belt yesterday and noticed the tensioner
pulley was growling a bit (sounded more like a roller skate wheel).

Tensioner appears ok. Rather than replace the whole tensioner
assembly, I belive I can replace just the tensioner pulley.

Have found the Dayco 89169 listed as a "tensioner/idler" pulley.
I take it that the idler pulley and the tensioner pulley is the
same.

Has anyone done this before and can they confirm if they are
indeed the same pulley? If it can be done, what's the best way
to loosen the nut holding the pulley on the tensioner. Is it best
to loosen it with the belt still holding tension on it or can
the nut be loosened with the belt off? Also, do you have
to remove the tensioner to replace the pulley?

TIA,
Geo.

 

a tensioner pulley is different than an idler pulley - tensioner can be adjusted either by a spring or a bolt that will tension the belt... an idler pulley is similar, but is mounted static and used to help route the belt... there is typically a cap over the nut on the front of a pulley - pop off the cover if there is one and loosen the nut... you don't need the belt on to do it. I don't know if the idler and tensioner is the same pulley on our trucks though... someone who has replaced would know...

 

I'm not sure on the 4 banger, but on the V6 they are seperate pulleys. I would replace both if you already have it stripped down.

 

x2 It is easier to replace it now then to try to do it when it is in the truck later.