Questions about changing my serpentine belt.

[Kissfan79]

Hey guys...I'm getting ready to change my serpentine belt and have a couple of questions. First off....how much does the piston compress on the tensioner? I slipped a bar and socket on it to get a feel for it and it took a while to even get it to budge. After a while it started moving but where it seemed to stop.....I'm not sure if there was enough slack to get the old belt off (didn't try.....just wanted to get a feel for it. The weather will be better on Tuesday). Second.....is it indeed a 19mm socket? It seemed the 19mm still had a bit of wiggle in it and I have read a 3/4" works. Any information is greatly appreciated.Thanks!Jim

[joecoolinatl]

I'll find out tonight or tomorrow, as i ordered one from amazon to do on mine since i'm at 100K now.ordered this one for my 03 base-http://www.amazon.com/gp/produ...tailsGoodyear 4060725 Gatorback Poly V-Beltgot here yesterday, so as long as the wife gets home before dark, should be good to go!i actually haven't driven my vibe in months! she's been driving it since we sold her 4x4 silverado! I'm now DDing my bmw 6

[sideshowalan]

Are you turning the "fake" 19mm nut? It's part of the solid tensioner piece and will pivot the tensioner pulley.Mine took a lot of effort to move, so much that my fingers were sore afterwards. I recommend using the largest open-end or 6 point wrench you have. Pull it (towards?) you with one hand and use the other to slip the belt off of the alternator pulley when you have enough slack.Also, I recommend stashing the old one in your car somewhere in case your belt ever breaks in the middle of no where.