How to change serpentine belt?

[michaelj1978]

I'd like to do this on my own. What tools will I be needing and how difficult a job is this? I'd also like to find a picture of what it looks like installed from the side so I know where to replace the belt. My stock one has 147,000 miles on it and I think it's time to replace.

I have a garage, tools, jackstand if needed and a helping hand if needed.

[Mark]

It's really pretty simple, some searches on here will get you most all of the info you'll need. Here's a link to a routing diagram: http://s1.hubimg.com/u/5313818_f520.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Make sure you get the right belt, I recently learned the hard way that the belt is one of the few things that are different between the Vibe and Matrix.

[sideshowalan]

Use a 'slim' breaker bar to relieve the tension, I have one that barely fits between the tensioner and the side of the engine compartment. Use one hand to pull the tensioner towards the front of the car and then use the other hand to slip the belt off of the alternator. When you put the new belt on, do the alternator last while the tension is off.

I recommend the Goodyear Gatorback belt, strong and quiet.

[cthomasparr]

I think there is a special tool to grab the tensioner and release tension from the belt for removal/installation, but I always use two wrenches to take care of that. if you are not sure what that is google "two wrench leverage trick"

[Water boy]

Use a 'slim' breaker bar to relieve the tension, I have one that barely fits between the tensioner and the side of the engine compartment. Use one hand to pull the tensioner towards the front of the car and then use the other hand to slip the belt off of the alternator. When you put the new belt on, do the alternator last while the tension is off.

I recommend the Goodyear Gatorback belt, strong and quiet.

Ditto Gatorback.

[joatmon]

someone on here once tried to rotate the tensioner by torquing the mounting bolt, and sheared it off. You would probably not want to do that