Can a serpentine belt be replaced on a Chevy S10?
The serpentine belt on the 1994-2003 Chevy S-10 pickup can be replaced in just a matter of minutes. Open the hood and locate the serpentine belt tensioner.
Where is the belt tensioner on a Chevy S10?
The belt tensioner is what keeps the tension on the belt so that the belt does not come off of the pulleys. The belt tensioner is located directly below the alternator. The tensioner has a 3/8-inch square opening right below the pulley on the tensioner.
Can a serpentine belt be replaced on a Ecotec engine?
The serpentine belt on the GM 2.2L Ecotec engine can be a challenge to replace due to limited space and difficulties in getting a tool on the tensioner. In this post I will replace the belt without a special tensioner wrench. Such a tool,though, will likely greatly aid in changing the belt on this particular engine.
How is the tension set on a serpentine belt?
Depending on the application, your serpentine belt will either have tension placed on it using a movable bracket or an auto tensioner pulley. This pulley uses an internal spring to apply consistent pressure to the belt at all times. If your vehicle does not have a tensioner pulley, the alternator bracket is likely how tension is set on the belt.
How do you remove a serpentine belt on a Chevy S10?
Turn the belt tensioner counterclockwise to relieve the tension off of the belt. Slide the belt off of the belt tensioner with your other hand. Let the tensioner go back to its normal spot. Finish removing the serpentine belt from the remaining pulleys. Pull the belt out and set it to the side.
How do you tighten a serpentine belt on a car?
If your vehicle does not have an auto tensioner, insert a pry bar or piece of wood between the alternator and the engine. Run the belt over the alternator pulley, then use the bar to pry the alternator away from the engine and increase the tension on the belt. Tighten the bolts again as you apply tension.
What kind of pulley does a serpentine belt use?
Determine if there is a belt tensioner pulley. Depending on the application, your serpentine belt will either have tension placed on it using a movable bracket or an auto tensioner pulley. This pulley uses an internal spring to apply consistent pressure to the belt at all times.
How often should a serpentine belt be replaced?
Most serpentine belts need to be replaced every 40,000 to 70,000 miles. If there are signs of the belt rubbing on something, make sure to identify and repair whatever it was rubbing on to avoid damaging the new belt.