The repair, I have new belt tensioner for a 2004 Pilot and in the process trying to install it, this is to find out what is causing a winding noise, along with fixing the up/down engine idling,. So far the top tensioner bolt is removed. Now the lower bolt is next. Is there a way to do this with out removing more parts and going from the underside of the car?. Also, would it be a good idea to start it without the belt that drives the alternator, ac unit?. Thinking if the power steering is the only item running and I still have the noise that it is the power steering pump unit,

 

it's fine to start without the accessory belt installed, it will just be running off the battery.

I haven't done an older pilot in a while, but the more modern ones and the Odysseys have room top or bottom to get it out.

 

Thanks for the reply, I give it try and complete the repair,

 

Did the startup and the noise is still there. Used my stethoscope, and checked the power steering pump, and belt tensioner but didn't hear any noise with those. Having a hard time putting the belt back on (see attached photos). Also, to line up the top12mm bolt hole to the bracket that has the nut attached to bracket. Trying to keep from disconnecting the wire and the plug ,on the alternator to make more working space to see so that I can line up the top alternator bolt. Does anyone know how get this bolt Top hole for alt.
lined up an easier way also, using a 14mm. closed end ratchet type wrench with a larger open end set at the end or top of the 14mm. wrench and this is held with a tie down hooked on the ac. tubes, for tensioner relieve (WORKS good)?. Noticed that the 2005 has a different bracket that lines this up..

Back side of nut to bracket pic

Front showing hole for 12mm

 

Looking for more advice. Recently started the car with both belts, ran nice and even idled good. Went to do a quick 20 ft move and it started making the noise that (seems to be non-metallic) just a whine, that could be at the Left front side of the block and the idle was off also. ..Got the recording on MP3 if you would like to hear it I can send it on the next reply. Thinking that maybe a water pump going out however, that would be a metallic sound and it is unlikely that two parts would be at fault since the alternator was the primary fix. Not sure on the next move on this one...