Best way to remove Alternator Belt
 

Whats the best way to relieve tension for the alt belt to be removed ?

From underneath the car, you should be able to see a couple of turnbuckles. The one on the driver's side is larger, and it is the AC/ALT belt. To loosen the turnbuckle correctly, first loosen the bolts mounting the turnbuckle. If you don't do this first, you can strip out the turnbuckle itsel, and then spend a few ducats to replace it.

Next, loosen the jamnuts on the turn buckle there are two of them, I think the left is reverse thread. then use a wrench to turn the turnbuckle itself.

I can't recall which direction is which offhand, but I'm sure you can figure that out. Once it is loose enough to slip the old belt off, do so. Then install the new belt

Tighten the turnbuckle first, if you have the P9201 tool, I think it is tensioned to "9". If you don't have the tool, I suggest getting it fairly tight. I wish I could give you better direction on this part....

Tighten the jamnuts, and then tighten the two mounting bolts. Fire up the engine to make sure that it doesn't squeal, check your voltmeter to make sure that's giving you a good reading from the alternator and you should be set.

Micah

Make sure you undo the ac compressor mounting bolts when removing/ adjusting the belt. Always run the engine for a short while then re-check the belt tension. Tighten the ac compressor mounting bolts, have seen more than a few fall out because they were left loose.

Hey a local.... I'm pretty unhappy with my local shop's customer service. Where is your shop at Britwrench?

Micah

Near Fisherman's Terminal in Ballard/Magnolia

I'm in Bremerton myself, but if it comes time for a shop, I'll check you out.

Micah