rl29

I could use some help on this one. Went to the parts store to get a manual on a 2002 cavalier and they apparently don't have one out yet. They said its to new. So what I need to know is how to replace the serpentine belt. Is this something that can be done by myself without great difficulty or do I need to take in to a dealer. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

skypiper

By now you've either had it replaced or figured it out. In case anyone else is searching out an answer:

You have to pull the front wheel off and take out the plastic shield covering the front of the engine. Put the belt in place over the pulleys and use a 3/8th's" socket wrench in the square hole in the middle of the tension arm pulley. Rotate it counter-clockwise and slip the belt under it. I used a 6" extension with a socket to fit over the handle of my socket wrench to give me a little more leverage. The biggest problem I had was keeping the belt from jumping off the alternator pulley while I was trying to get in under the tension pulley. An extra body to hold it in place helps. Since you almost have to get into the wheel well, make sure the car is blocked up for safety reasons.