alternator replacement, help please?

[bcassner]

To release the tensioner I went to a local parts shop and rented the tensioner kit, it worked so well that I bought it. For $15. it was worth it.

[AvalonJohn]

Guys:

Dumb question, but I will ask anyway. I got a tool from AutoZone (like a long wrench) that allows you to put the wrench on the center bolt of the tensioner pully from the top of the engine. To relieve the tension on the belt, to I push it towards the cars compartment or pull towards the front of the car ?

AJ

[bdahl385]

Originally Posted by AvalonJohn

Guys:

Dumb question, but I will ask anyway. I got a tool from AutoZone (like a long wrench) that allows you to put the wrench on the center bolt of the tensioner pully from the top of the engine. To relieve the tension on the belt, to I push it towards the cars compartment or pull towards the front of the car ?

AJ

I borrowed that same wrench from AZ when I changed out my alternator. I cannot remember for sure which way to move the wrench but the answer is real simple. Watch the serpentine belt between the alternator pulley and tensioner pulley as you push or pull that wrench handle. Whichever way allows the belt to slacken is the correct way to move it.

BTW - I slipped the belt off the alternator after getting enough slack and then used several bungie cords suspended from the hood to hold it in place around all the remaining pulleys. I switched out the alternator and then put the belt right back on w/o having to worry about threading it up-over-down and around all those other places. This of course only works if you don't want to also replace the belt at the same time.

[Ron AKA]

Originally Posted by AvalonJohn

Guysumb question, but I will ask anyway. I got a tool from AutoZone (like a long wrench) that allows you to put the wrench on the center bolt of the tensioner pulley from the top of the engine. To relieve the tension on the belt, to I push it towards the cars compartment or pull towards the front of the car ?AJ

With your left hand pull towards the front of the vehicle. You are not trying to undo this bolt and are just using it to get a twist on the pulley. This will loosen the belt enough to slip it easily off the pulley at the front with your right hand. There is no need to play with the tensioner. Assembly is just the reverse. Check to see that you have a belt diagram under the hood, and if not take careful note of how it runs. It is not hard to put back on. Once you get the knack, it is about 10-15 minutes to change an alternator.

[veerg]

I was able to pull the belt just to the edge of the alternator pulley. Use your left hand to pull and right to push it over. A couple of deep breaths did the same thing and the belt came off. I thought "man that was easy". While I was at the Adv Auto buying the new alt, I rented the tool as well just in case I needed it. I tried to pull the new belt over the alternator again. Couldn't do it. Must be the new belt can not be stretched much. Tried the tool from above. Couldn't even get it on the tensioner bolt. Tried the tool from below. It has a long handle, could not move much. Finally took the wheel off. Then just an ordinary wrench was easily able to move the tensioner. Got some one from above to slip the belt over. The job became very easy. Go anticlockwise to slacken.
By the way, make the belt diagram or get a picture from this forum. And assure yourself the dia is correct and you know what to do. When I was putting the belt back, especially on the non-grooved ones, I was saying that no way this dia is correct. But it was.