need help replacing belt tensioner - 95 skylark

[71chaz]

The belt tensioner on my 95 Skylark needs to be replaced...it could come loose at any time. My question is...how involved is replacing the belt tensioner? I would like to do it myself to save some $$$. Any suggestions on how to remove and install the part? Thanks!

[tman]

have you got the 3800 engine? I doubt you do. It should be the same for the 3.1 and 3.4 engines.

you'll need a metric set of sockets
socket wrench
12 pack of bud(optional)

take your socket wrench and use a 15mm socket(I think) to release ension on the belt, and remove the belt. Take care to remember which way the belt sat in the engine, and the path it takes. its important to keep a belt spinning the same way all its life.

use a 15mm socket(i think) and remove the 2 power steering pump bolts.the socket should with through the openings in the PS pully

set the ps pump aside, no need to disconnect the ps lines. you should have access to all the bolts to take the tensioner unit off.

repeat backards to install. beer may be consumed at anytime

[71chaz]

I have the 3.1 engine...thanks for the info...

Any idea how many bolts hold the tensioner unit in place?

[tman]

Not sure, I'd guess 5-10, you should be able to see all of them though

[Ultralight]

Been there done that. There is one bolt in the middle but the kicker is getting to it. I had to remove my wheel and the inner fender well to get to it. My problem was that the plastic around the bolt was broken and the whole tensioner was sitting sideways so it was a pain getting a wrench or scoket on it. Hopefully you won`t have that much trouble. Hope this helps.


Ultralight