How do you install a new alternator belt?
Installing a New Alternator Belt Compare the lengths of the new and old belts. Run the new belt through most of the pulleys. Loosen the auto-tensioner and slide the new belt on. Slide the belt over the alternator pulley. Tighten the alternator bolts. Check the belt tension. Reconnect the battery.
Where does the serpentine belt go on an alternator?
If you do not have a diagram on the vehicle or in your service manual laying out the direction your serpentine belt travels through the pulleys, take a picture of it with your phone to refer to when installing the new belt. A strictly alternator belt will likely only go around an alternator pulley and the crank pulley at the bottom of the engine.
How do you find the negative terminal on an alternator?
The negative terminal can be identified by looking for the negative symbol (-) or the letters NEG. Loosen the bolt until you can slide the cable off of the terminal. Tuck the cable to the side of the battery to prevent it from coming in contact with the negative terminal.
If you do not have a diagram on the vehicle or in your service manual laying out the direction your serpentine belt travels through the pulleys, take a picture of it with your phone to refer to when installing the new belt. A strictly alternator belt will likely only go around an alternator pulley and the crank pulley at the bottom of the engine.
How do you tighten the belt on an alternator?
Tighten the alternator bolts. With the serpentine or alternator belt safely seated on the alternator pulley, use the same wrench you used to loosen to the bolts to tighten them again. As you tighten the bolts, the alternator will stop tipping forward, which will increase the tension on the belt.
Can a car have more than one alternator belt?
In older model vehicles, engines often came equipped with multiple belts that each powered a different accessory. However, most modern vehicles use only one belt to power the alternator as well as the power steering, air conditioning, and any other accessories.
How big of a drive do you need for an alternator?
It is possible that your vehicle uses a 3/8 inch drive or even a bolt on the tensioner pulley, so refer to your particular vehicle’s service manual to ensure you have the appropriate tools. Rotate the wrench clockwise to relieve the pressure it is placing on the belt.