How do tou change a serpentine belt on a 2000 olds bravada?

Answer 1

First, make sure there is a diagram that shows just how the belt winds around all the pulleys. There should be a sticker right above the fan. If it is not there get a flash light and make your own diagram. CHECK IT TWICE! Just below the alternator is a tension pulley. It is a wheel that's only purpose it to keep the belt tight. When I change mine, I can get my arm in behind the tension pulley and push it in. That loosens the belt and you can remove it. If you aren't strong enough to push it in you will have to use a crow bar. Be careful what you use for leverage. There are a lot of hoses down there. You may need to put a small block of wood below the pulley and use that to rest your crow bar on as you push against the pulley. As I said, I am able to push it in with my hand and I am not a big guy. As you push the pulley in, I find it easiest to slide the belt off the very top pulley. It is smooth and just to the right of the alternator. Next put your new belt on just like the diagram. I find that it is easiest to put the belt around all the pulleys but the very top pulley (it is just to the right of the alternator.) It is smooth and doesn't do anything but guide the belt. Push the tension pulley in (with the belt already on it) and slide the belt onto the last pulley on top. If you are having trouble, make sure the belt is centered on all the pulleys. Once you get the belt on DOUBLE CHECK that the belt fits around each pulley just like the diagram. Also make sure that the belt is centered on each pulley. Most of the pulley wheels with have 6 grooves on them. If the belt is off by one groove, it will be torn apart in about 2 minutes. If everything is centered, you are good to go.