What tools do I need to change a drivebelt on a 2.4L 96 Grand Am?

[lionelkirk2004]

Does anyone know what tools I need to change a drivebelt on a 1996 Grand Am 2.4L? Is it hard?

[Hoags]

The only tools I used were a 3/8" drive breaker bar and a long handled pry bar. Depending on the tensioner pulley bracket you should be able to determine the best tool to use. My pulley bracket has a square hole that the 3/8" drive breaker bar fits in. I just insert the bar in the hole and muscle the pulley to relieve the tension on the belt. i then remove the belt paying attention to how the belt runs and which side of the belt makes contact with each pulley. Usually the groved side goes on the pulleys with the graove and the smooth side of the belt against the smooth pulleys. I get the new belt lined up around all th pulleys I can, then muscle the tensioner pulley again and finish getting the belt in place and your done. It is not a difficult job looking at it can be overwhelming but it is quite simple. Just be careful working with that tensioner pulley. There is a lot of pressure behinde it, make sure that what ever tool you need to use is securely in place so it will not slip.

Good luck.

[lionelkirk2004]

Alright thanks

[Knifeblade]

yep, or you may need a 28 mm socket and put it on the tensioner pully bolt to move it [the tensioner pulley]. With luck, just the breaker bar will do it in the square cutout you will find on the tensioner pulley bracket. Whatever method has to be applied, be SURE that the bar or socket is FIRMLY seated before applying pressure!!!!!!!!!

Old trick~~~~~~~~ if the breaker bar or socket handle or wrench isn't long enough to get good leverage, slip a piece of steel pipe over it, instant extension, but again be careful with this trick.

[Hoags]

Good suggestions, Knife. I forgot to add the use of extentions on the breaker bar or ratchet.