How do you replace the serpentine belt on a 1988 Chevy Celebrity 2.5?

Answer 1

On a V6 engine the serpentine belt is on the right (passenger) side and is tensioned by a spring-loaded swing arm and pulley. This arm can be pulled up to allow the belt to be replaced. In theory, it can be done be one person, but it's best if that person has three arms.

To replace the belt, put an appropriate socket wrench over the swung pulley pivot nut and lift against the spring tension. This will take about fifteen to twenty kilograms of force, so it's not something you want to hold for more than a few minutes. Once the belt tesion is eased, the old belt can be easily slid off.

While holding the tension, use your two remaining hands (or your helper if you aren't equiped with three arms) to place the new belt around the pulley wheels. Gently release the tension on the swing arm and let it's spring tighten the belt. Check to make sure the routing is correct and no fingers have been caught and you're done.

With two people, the job should take less than half an hour. With one person, count on an hour and a half. (Also count on aching for several days from holding twenty Kg of spring tension for that time.)