1997 Park Avenue Belt Change

[Bryan22]

Is there a somewhat reasonable way to change a belt on a PA... is there decent procedure?

Thanks!

[BNaylor]

Actually it is not that difficult. All you need is a 15mm socket on a big ratchet or breaker bar. Put the tool on the tensioner pulley bolt (located below alternator) and turn counterclockwise so you can remove the serpentine drive belt.

There should be an illustration placed somewhere in the engine compartment probably in the area of the radiator support that shows belt routing. See pic below. The GoodYear Gatorback serpentine drive belt is an excellent choice and highly recommended.



Serpentine Drive Belt Routing SII 3800 Engine

[Bryan22]

Mine appears to have part of the motor mount bracket in the way.

I have changed many of these belts and this one isn't that simple.

[BNaylor]

Yeah, you're right. I forget the PA and LeSabres have a different motor mounting system and the motor mount makes belt replacement a PITA. Here is an old thread that should help.

Click here

[Vistopher]

I had to change mine at one point in time.. My chiltons had a step-by-step process telling me how to change it. It's an annoying process and more difficult than most vehicles..

[HotZ28]

The most difficult part of this job, is removing the right front tire & splash shield. Once that is accomplished, remove the lower right motor bracket nut first, then the stud. (If they both come out together, that saves some time). If not, in order to remove the stud, you will need a female torx socket and 3/8” ratchet with an extension. Once the stud is out, pry or knock out the spacer behind the motor bracket. Loosen the tensioner and drop the belt off the pulleys. Your old belt will now come out through the opening and you can install the new belt in reverse. I normally use a belt sander on the spacer to grind one end at an angle (about .0025) to ease the task of prying & knocking the spacer back in position. Usually you can slide the spacer back in by hand after grinding it! Now, replace bracket stud & nut and tighten to spec. Always check to be sure the belt is centered in the groves on ALL pulley’s before starting the engine! Replace splash shield & front wheel. The whole process may take an hour the first time, however, if you ever have to do it again, it should be no more than a 30 min job. (If you grind the spacer, have a jack & proper tools)
BTW, the belt routing diagram is in your owners manual for the 97 PA!

[wafrederick]

You need a Female torx socket,E10 or E12 and it is not a male torx.I found loosening the easiest mount nut to get to is the easiest way to get that spacer back in.Most don't have a belt route chart anyway and I have seen this.

[HotZ28]

Female socket, it would be rather hard to find a "Male socket" anyway!

Take my advice.I own a 97' PA and I will pay to have it done.
If you don't have the right tools you will regret it.I paid 40.00 for that headache.

[monsteranus]

I jumped into the belt change on this model also, it was not fun nor should it be such a pain in the rear either!

I recently noticed the belt looked to be in need of replacing. This time I took it to my local trusted mechanic!

[Smitty's Buick]

I just did the same job on my 96. Unfortunately, the belt came apart on the highway. Big mess! Use the procedure HotZ28 described and you will do fine. I did not take off the wheel or splash guard to do the job.
Smitty's Buick