AC Fan Belt

[ReporterTN]

How do you remove the AC fan belt? I need to replace the alternator belt, but the AC belt has to come off first. Can the idler pulley be moved without taking the AC compressor off?

[JLBKY]

Yes. Loosen the idler pulley, slide it up and remove the belt. I find that tightening the pulley is somewhat difficult from the "top". I do it from below, and have a second set of hands apply pressure with a  long bar, as I tighten the pulley. The space in front of the idler pulley is very limited as I recall, and getting a wrench or socket in there is "tight". I welded a socket to a piece of pipe and it easily goes on to the bolt in the front of the pulley.

John

[ReporterTN]

Thanks for the help, John. I loosened the idler pulley all right, but will need more detail with how to tighten it. How exactly does the helper apply pressure with a bar?

Bob

[Ron.Strasser]

When I did mine; the helper was above on a ladder and pressed down on the pulley while I was under the Avanti and tightened the pulley.  Was able to get enough tension on the belt without using a bar.

Ron.

[JLBKY]

Either from the top as Ron said, or from the bottom, the bar is placed so as to put pressure on the pulley assembly and thus tighten the belt.I have a lift so it makes this easier to do. But my "helper", takes the long bar and places it so that he can leverage it on something and thereby take the slack out of the belt. Get a bar about 2 1/2 feet long and place it in various positions, top or bottom, to determine what will work for you. It is not that difficult, but I've never been able to do it alone.

John