Easy step by step repair guide on how to replace an automotive serpentine belt tensioner, configuration may vary, but the steps will be similar.
Difficulty Scale: 5 of 10
Begin with the vehicle on level ground, engine cold (off) in park with the emergency brake set.
Step 1 - To begin, some front wheel drive vehicles need to have the engine supported before tensioner removal. Rear wheel drive vehicles can omit step 1 through 4.
Step 2 - Once the engine is safely supported, remove
engine mount retainer nuts.
Step 3 - Next, remove the main engine mount bolts,
the engine will become loose during this step.
Step 4 - Once all mounting bolts and nuts have
been removed the engine mount can be removed.
Step 5 - While releasing the belt tensioner with
a ratchet or breaker bar, remove the serpentine belt.
Step 6 - After the belt has been removed inspect
the belt for cracks which indicate the belt should be replaced.
Step 7 - Next, loosen the tensioner pivot bolt
using a ratchet.
Step 8 - Once the pivot bolt has been removed,
lift the tensioner from the engine compartment.
Step 9 - After the tensioner has been removed inspect
worn areas.
Step 10 - Compare the old serpentine belt tensioner
to the new unit.
Step 11 - Next, install the new belt tensioner
onto the engine.
Step 12 - After the bolt has been installed, use
a ratchet to tighten the mounting bolt. Step 13 - It's a good idea to replace the old serpentine
belt with a new belt. Compare the old belt to the new belt before installation. Step 14 - Once the comparison is complete, install
the new serpentine belt.
Installing New Serpentine Belt Tensioner