I know this has been covered before, but people keep saying that the "cheap" tensioner listed on RockAuto.com doesn't work. You can find it under 2002 SLK32 AMG and it works perfectly. It is the updated Mercedes part# 112 200 0970 (Old# 112 200 0770)

Differences:
- It has a plastic pulley that is a little narrower than my stock metal one.
- It doesn't use the center of the pulley to move tensioner. There is a nice 17mm "nut" on the edge of the tensioner. (Much better design IMO)

* Note: It comes with a metal pin temp installed. This allows you to access the mount bolts and install the tensioner easier. DO NOT forget to pull this pin, otherwise you will not have tension on the belt * (Yes, I'm a man of experience... lol)

 

Thanks for that info, great post. How much is the item with shipping?

 

It was $60 shipped I believe...

 

can the pulley be removed for the p/s kit or is it a permanent part of the tensioner?

 

I didn't try taking it off, but it looks as if you can just take out the star-screw.

 

If I hadnt just replaced mine, I would seriously consider buying one of these just for that handy tool point to use instead of the E10 bit. I have three (3) spare pulleys now too, so it will probably be a while before I have to worry about a new tensioner.....