How do you replace the power steering belt on a 2003 Mazda Protege?

Answer 1

On 1.6L, it is easiest to do it from under neath. all you need is 14mm socket and a ratchet to turn it. If you are underneath car looking up towards the Power Steering pump you should be ably to see the tensioner bolt on it. Loosen the nut that clamps the tensioner slider and the power steering pump pivot bolt that is to the left of it. No need to remove these, just loosen them off. Turn the power steering bolt counter-clockwise until there is about a 15mm gap between the bolt head and the tensioner bracket that it normally pushes on. You will need to pull down on the power steering pump until the tensioner belt contacts the tensioner again. There should be enough slack to remove the belt. if not turn the tensioner bolt out further and pull down more. Do not remove the tensioner bolt! It will be difficult to reinstall and there is just no reason to. Install the new belt, and tighten the tensioner by turning it clockwise. Tighten until there is approx. 5-10mm of deflection on the longest span. Do not over tension. Now tighten the tensioner clamp nut and pivot bolt. Start the car. Holding the accelerator at part throttle, turn on the a/c (if you have it,) and turn the steering briskly from lock to lock. If no squeaking is heard and the steering is smooth then you are done. If it's squeaking and/or shuddering, then you need more tension. Follow the same procedure as for installation except the belt removal part. Good luck