1999 Mercury Mountaineer Belt Tensioner Fix

KPAQ

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I have a '99 Mercury Mountaineer AWD with 150,000 miles. It has the V-8 5.0L engine.
My question is this - I needed to take the alternator out to have it tested and now I am attempting to put it back in. My problem now is I cannot get the serpintine belt back on the alternator. My thought is to decrease the tension on the belt however I am not sure I am doing it right.
Two part question: is this the right idea (or is there an easier way to do it)? and/or is the way to release the tension on the belt by loosening the bolt on the front of the tension wheel?

Mar 21, 2007 at 7:00 AM

MERLIN2021

✓Experienced Mechanic
17,250 POSTS

Put a long wrench or use 2 wrenches together to lengthen it and put it on the tensioer bolt, That will give you the leverage you need. Don't remove the bolt or the tensioner! only apply tightening pressure...

Mar 22, 2007 at 5:50 AM

Suggested Repair

Use a long wrench, or two wrenches together for extra length, on the tensioner bolt to gain leverage and move the tensioner. Do not remove the bolt or the tensioner; only apply pressure in the tightening direction.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1999 Mercury Mountaineer with a 5.0L V-8 could not get the serpentine belt back onto the alternator and asked whether loosening the tensioner bolt was the way to reduce belt tension. The expert advised using a long wrench or two wrenches on the tensioner bolt for leverage and applying pressure without removing the bolt or tensioner.

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1999 Mercury Mountaineer Belt Tensioner Fix

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