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Serpentine (not Timing) Belt Replacement

1.3K views 2 replies 3 participants last post by  jtrealty  
#1 ·
I performed a search on the forum and was not able to get the information. I may be missing something.
I recently purchased a 2001 Esprit. The PO had the timing/cam belts and tensioners replaced.
I am looking for information to replace the serpentine belt (Alternator, PS and AC). How do you access this area? What is the serpentine belt part number?
Thanks for your help in advance
 
#2 ·
The Serpentine belt is accessed from below. I am not sure of part number offhand, but give JAE a call, they stock them and are available. The only tool required is a 3/8 drive ratchet to loosen the tensioner. Be sure you note the routing of the belt, it is important to spin the alternator and water pump in the correct direction. The space is limited and almost impossible for me to get 2 hands into the hole from below, so a helper up top is very helpful to guide the belt and help with aligning things. Be sure the tensioner mounting bolt is snugged to the proper toque also while you are there. If that bolt breaks or comes loose, the belt will jump off and lose accessories and water circulation. It is a 20-40 minute job once you see how it goes, but the car will need to be on a lift or jackstands to get to the tensioner from below..... I never tried to fit my arms down between the engine and firewall.
Good luck,
Artie
99 V8
2009 Audi R8
 
#3 ·
It is usually standard practice to replace all of the belts at one time. The serpentine belt can outlast the timing belts. If possible check with the shop that did the last service and see if it is really necessary to replace that belt. If you can get a hold of the actual shop ticket it should tell you what parts were replaced and what labor was done. When it was done is also important. While the timing belts may not need to be replaced, the tension may need to be checked. Since you "just" got the car it's service history is very important. If you do not know the last time certain things were done, YOU must have it done. For instance, the brakes and clutch fluid should be flushed and bled EVERY YEAR. The coolant and battery every 5 years, tires replaced every 7 years. There are a lot of things to check, you need to get the service schedule and make sure everything is up to date and with the right parts and liquids. The better you take care of the car the better and more reliable it will be.
David Teitelbaum