97 Metro belt replacement

[jeffbart33]

Hello, this morning my belt came apart and flew off. It is the first belt that runs the A/C and power steering pump. I have changed belts on cars before but never on one this small. My questions are: Do I have to loosen everything up to get the belt on? Most cars have a belt tensioner and when you move that the belt slips on that I have changed. My other question is can I drive it without the belt? Seems like I can. The power steering is not an issue and the A/C needed a recharge anyways. I just got the car about 3 months ago and I love it. Great gas, 4 door model and fits everywhere not too mention the great gas mileage (40+). My key locks don't work at all on the doors though and I have to leave it unlocked. Any info will be appreciated. Great site with alot of information. I will reading all of it.

Thanks, Jeff.

[doug2060]

As long as the belt only controls power steering and AC you can go without it. Mine doesn't have power steering so I can't give advice on how it is replaced exactly but mine does have a tensioner which you loosen the bolt in the center of the pulley and the one directly under the pulley controls the up and down position which you will use to raise and lower for replacement. Good luck...