HOW do I losen the serpentine belt on a 2000 FORD ESCORT so I
can remove the Alternator.

thanks for help!!!

Remove the alternator bolts first...make sure someone is holding the tensioner so theres no tension on it....done it plenty of times.....wait, you do know where the tensioner is, right?

Yes I know were the tensioner is, But that is where I need help. I can't get it to move. Is it spring loaded.

ok, on the top part of the tensioner that you can see, there is a square hole, you can fit a 3/8 drive ratchet/breaker bar in there, then push/pull (pull is easier) the handle of the ratchet (easier with a breaker/cheater bar) towards the front of the car.....yes, it is spring loaded..very much so

Jet-Lee have you done this on a 2000 Ford Escort,All I can see down there is the belt and pully,
Not much room.I can't belive I will not get this done.

do you got the 2.0L SOHC, or the Zetec?

Jet-Lee
This is not my car and I don't know that.All I know is that it is a escort zx2.

That would have helped...that means its a Zetec, not my area of expertise, go to AutoZone and get a Haynes manual

Jet-Lee
I just can't see how to pry on the tensioner.They(car ower) told me when they had a new belt replaced at a Gas station the tensioner got broken.
Had to go to Ford for repair.That is why a need to
know where to pry. Or pay $300.00 or so to have it done.
Thanks for your time.!!! can't belive this

Jet-Lee

Thanks for your time on this.

no prob bob

n e thing I can find (for 2.0L Zetec) simply says to turn the accessory belt tensioner in the clockwise direction, but doesn't say how...sorry

Jet-Lee

Thanks!!! Out to buy a book.

Jet-Lee

If you see this Thanks!! After you gave me the clue about clockwise direction. I put a socket on the nut that hold the idler pully on the tensioner and went in CW direction. Voila belt lose and new alternator in all OK.

The way I did on my 98 was by removing the plastic under the car, and loosening the tensioner from underneath..