1988 GMC S15 drive belt

IMAFINE1

MEMBER
1988 GMC S15
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
200,000 MILES

I've replaced the serpentine belt twice on this vehicle but it's been a few years since I last did it and now I can't remember how to do it. I do remember it was really simple and quick and involved using a prybar to move a pully to take off the belt. The shop wants $200 to replace a $22 belt that only takes a few minutes to swap out. Help!
This is a 4.3 L with no A/C.

4 Replies

BMRFIXIT

MECHANIC
19,053 POSTS

Its a self tensioner
just pull it away from the belt and remove
this is some belt routing
check which one u have
good luck

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Tuesday, December 30th, 2008 AT 9:55 PM

IMAFINE1

MEMBER
5 POSTS

BMRFIXIT,

Thanks for the input. I tried prying the self tensioner from both sides and couldn't get it to move. The truck hasn't been maintained well in the past two years or so. Seems like everything has dried up in the New Mexico heat and low humidity. The truck got rusty in the So FL salt and humidity in the few years before that. The environment and lack of care has taken it's toll. So, could the tensioner pulley be stuck? What are your thoughts?

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Wednesday, December 31st, 2008 AT 10:48 AM

BMRFIXIT

MECHANIC
19,053 POSTS

Yes then suspect a bad tensioner
and it need to be replaced
I think its about $60
hold the belt and push or pull it does the tensioner move if not that is for sure need new one
remove center bolt and remove the tensioner
good luck

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Wednesday, December 31st, 2008 AT 4:21 PM

IMAFINE1