Serpentine belt replacement

Hi,

I have a '98 Grand Caravan 3.3l and I need to replace the serpentine belt. My question is, do I need to remove any parts that might be in the way in order to remove the old belt? It looks fairly simple, but I thought I would ask before I start. Thanks for any advice!

John

The easiest way to replace the serpentine belt on a 3.3L is to support the front end with jack stands, remove the right front splash shield, then access the belt from below. It is possible to do it from up top, but if you have a set of stands and a jack you'll find it easier to do from underneath.
3.0L serpentine belts are easier to do from up top!
Have you checked the serpentine belt tensioner?? Pull on the belt and watch the tensioner pulley. It should move quite freely when you pull on the belt. If it doesn't, you should replace it as well. And while you have it up in the air you're well on your way to replacing it as well!!
Both jobs will require a 15mm combination wrench. You may find a 15mm socket/flexhead ratchet to be helpful for the tensioner if you decide to replace it. Or if you happen to have a plethora of tools at your disposal.........a 24 inch extension/15mm flexsocket/ratchet will zap the nut off of the back of the tensioner in a jiffy!

Too much info?? Hope it helps!!

I have a 96 with a 3.8 ltr. As I understand its very simular to the 3.3 ltr. I've changed the surp belt twice, both from the top. No need to remove anything. The first time it took 2 guys three hours. Had to grind down a 15mm socket to get it and a breaker bar to fit between the head of the bolt on the tentioner and the wheel well structure. The second one took 15 minutes by myself with the help of a tool designed just for these belts on select vehicles. It's a Sears Craftsman tool ($30) that amounts to an extra long bar you can fit included shorter than normal sockets on. Oh yes! The tensioner was frozen so had to change it too. ($18/30 min.) Buy the tool. Good luck.

thats not nessacerily true the easiest way is to have someone else do it....lol

thats not nessacerily true the easiest way is to have someone else do it....lol

Steve,
Good point but, knowing you did it yourself and didn't fork over a bunch o' bucks to a lyin, thieven, cheatin Dodge dealership - PRICELESS!!!!! Cheers! RIP