Belt replacement installation

2012 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID
190,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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KASSIEBUCK
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  • 2 POSTS
My bigger belt that goes around the pulleys broke driving. we got a new belt and for the life of us can not get it on. Any suggestions, we also really have no space to work in there.
Mar 26, 2020 at 7:49 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,248 POSTS
Hi,

I realize it is very tight. They are terrible to work on. Have you tried to release pressure from the tensioner? That is the only way it can be installed.

When I say belt tensioner, are you familiar with what I'm referring to? Please let me know. I'm trying. LOL Also, you will likely need a ratchet or wrench with a long handle to reach the tensioner. Look at the pic I attached. Not having it in front of me, I can't remember which is the tensioner. However, I circled two pulleys. One is movable. You need to take a wrench and place it on the bolt I circled and when turning it, the pulley will move. Move it the furthest you can to the directions in which the belt will be loosest.

Let me know if that helps.


Joe
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Mar 26, 2020 at 8:36 AM
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STEVE W.
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,399 POSTS
Upper one is the tensioner. That engine is very tight when it comes to belt length as the tensioner doesn't move a lot.
Mar 26, 2020 at 1:25 PM
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