How do you replace the serpentine belt on a 1999 Jeep Wrangler 4.0 with ac?

Answer 1

You'll need a torx bit I think it is a 40 make sure that the bigger size doesn't fit first,or it will strip easily. Looking at the engine on your left you will see where the belt slips over a smooth wheel, just below that there is and arm with another wheel on it. Use the torx bit and move that arm at the base to losen the belt for removal and for reinstallation.

I won't say the first answer is incorrect because manufacturers do strange things sometimes but that is not the way it works on my 1999 Wrangler with A/C and Power Steering. There is a smooth wheel below the PS pump on the front, driver side of the engine. This wheel is adjustable. Look behind the wheel and you'll see a long bolt. Follow the bolt up to the top and you'll see the head of the bolt in an easy to access location on the inside of the bracket. A socket and ratchet with an extension works fine on it. Before you go turning it, however, check the tension of the old belt as it may help you know how much tension to apply to the new belt. Next, loosen the nut that holds the smooth wheel to the bracket or the smooth wheel will not be free to move out of position and allow slack in the belt. Just loosen it a turn or so before turning the adjustment bolt in the direction that moves the wheel and allows slack in the belt. Remove the belt, insuring you can remember how the original was installed. A digital photo might help if you are as old as me and have a short memory or if you are not immediately going to install/re-install the belt. If your belt broke, or for some other reason you don't have the old routing to look at, there may be a diagram within the engine bay, on the package your new belt came in, or on the internet. To finish up, route the belt and tighten the long adjusting bolt before finally tightening up the bolt in the center of the smooth wheel. I just tightened mine about the same as the old one. It isn't rocket science - you don't want it to flap or be able to come off and you don't want it super tight or you'll wear out components prematurely. Hope this helps someone.