How do you change a serpentine belt on 1996 gmc Yukon?

Answer 1

Just changed the water pump and hoses to the water pump. I decided to replace the serpentine belt as well. This should take about 15 minutes. No need to remove the fan shroud if you can reach down below to the pulleys. The fan blades can do a number on your hands if you are not careful. I wore mechanics gloves as a precaution. Make sure you draw a diagram of how the belt goes on before you take the old belt off. On the front of the tensioner spring pulley there is a square slot for a 1/4" ratchet drive to fit into. Insert the ratchet into the slot and turn the ratchet so the tensioner pulley swings down. With the tension released, slip the belt off the pulley Make sure the new belt is the correct one. I was sold an incorrect belt and spent way too long reinstalling trying to figure out why the new belt would continue to squeal intermittently Hint: if you have the old belt in one piece, compare the length and width to the old one. I read some forums that said to replace the tensioner as well if the new belt is squealing. In most instances I don't think this isnecceassary. I think more times than not the new belt is not the correct one and is more than likely too long. Thread the belt over and under the pulleys according to your diagram. Pull down the spring tensioner as above with the 1/4" ratchet to slip the new belt over the tensioner pulley. Make the belt is seated well over and or under the pulleys Double check to see all tools are out of the way. Start the engine to test for any squeals or chirps which could indicate belt slippage.