How to Change an Alternator Belt
Changing your alternator belt is relatively easy and can be a great way to learn how to love working on cars. This is one of those "remove and replace" jobs and if you have your tools organized prior to the job, it can go relatively fast.
Safety:Make sure that the key is out of the vehicle and that the negative battery cable is detached.
Make sure the belt is bad:Check the belt to see if it really needs to be replaced. If there is any visible wear or fraying, it has served it's time and it is a very good idea to go buy a new one. Also check the belt tension. Push on the belt. It should move about a quarter inch to a half inch. If there is more play in the belt than that, it is worn and needs replacing.
The next step is releasing the tension. This will allow you to remove the belt.
Locate the Tensioner Pulley:Depending on the specific car, the alternator belt can be wound around several different accessory pulleys. You are looking for a pulley called the Tensioner Pulley. It has a pulley attached to a pivoting metal bracket. This bracket will either bolt onto the car or engine block at the opposite end of the pulley. You need to find a wrench or ratchet that fits the pivoting end of the bracket.
Familiarize:Take time to examine where the belt goes. You will need to put the new one on in the EXACT same way the old one comes off. Write it down or draw it if you need to.
Releasing Belt Tension/ Removing Belt:Once you find the correct tool and bolt, you need to release the belt tension. You simply put the wrench onto the pivoting bolt and turn it in one direction or the other. However, this is different from most bolts. You are NOT trying to remove this bolt. When you turn the wrench, the entire tensioner unit (pulley, bracket, and bolt) will turn as one. You will notice that the belt will get loose as you turn it one way, or tight when you turn it the other. Turn it until the belt has enough play in it to remove it. Compare the old belt with the new one to make sure they are the same.
Installing the New Belt:Wind the new belt around all of the pulleys except the alternator. Pay close attention to the notes or drawing you made earlier. Make sure it is on the exact same way as the old one. If incorrectly installed, damage to yourself or the vehicle can occur. Now, pull the wrench in the direction needed to loosen tension and slip the belt over the alternator pulley. Release the tensioner slowly to avoid injury. Remove the wrench and check the belt tension again by pushing on it. It should have a quarter inch to a half inch of play.
Clean Up and Start:Make sure you remove all rags, hands, and tools from the vehicle. Re-Attach the negative battery cable. You can now start your car!
