1989 Chevy Cavalier Serpentine Belt

DPEASE7894

MEMBER
1989 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
178,000 MILES

I have a 1989 Cavalier that I just had to replace the belt tensioner on. After what seems like forever, I finally got that finished, but how am I supposed to rotate the tensioner pulley and at the same time get the belt onto the pulley? It seems like it's taking all of my strength just to budge the pulley. Any tips?

1 Reply

IMPALASS

MECHANIC
3,112 POSTS

Hello

The wrench you are using probably isn't long enough. You need the leverage. I attached the directions though you are doing just fine. Make sure the belt is exactly centered on all the pulley wheels. Then the last wheel you will put it on looks like the alternator. If your wrench is not long enough, Auto Zone with the loan a tool program has a wrench that is made for this. Once you start to slide the belt over the last pulley, probably the alternator, sometimes turning the pulley at the same time pushes the belt over the lip. You may need two folks. . .. . .. . .you hold the tensioner and the other person slide the belt over. Leverage is the big thing.
1. Disconnect battery ground cable, then remove coolant recovery tank.
2. Using 19 mm wrench, pivot tensioner and remove belt from alternator.
3. Raise and support vehicle, then remove inner fender splash shield.
4. Remove A/C belt, if equipped.
5. Remove serpentine drive belt.
6. Reverse procedure to install. Refer to Fig. 19, for drive belt routing.

Hope this helps. . .. . ..let us know if not.