How do you replace the serpentine belt on a 1996 Pontiac Sunfire GT?

Answer 1

This is a technique I picked up in the middle of I-10 in New Orleans, in 104 degree heat, during peak traffic. (frustration is one hell of a motivator). You'll need two tools for this: 1: a 15mm box-end wrench or socket & ratchet to force the tensioner to compress. 2: a large, flat head screwdriver to pry the belt onto the alternator pulley. As you can guess, this requires both hands doing working independently of one another. Lace the belt, then place the blade of the screwdriver between the alternator pulley, and part of the belt that will go over it. It'll be very tight, and you can damage the belt and / or alternator if you're not careful. You will be facing the car for this part, and the space is tight. Place your socket / ratchet or wrench on the bolt at the center of the tensioner, while still keeping tension on the screwdriver & belt. In one motion, you will compress the tensioner (clockwise as viewed from the passenger side) and pry the belt over the alternator pulley. Get in, and drive away. Diagrams are here; http://www.automotivehelper.com/topic309192.htm us a 15mm wrench or socket what ever is easier and lift the tensioner by the nut in the center and take the belt off one of the pulleys Diagram; http://www.automotivehelper.com/topic309192.htm see a post a few up from this one for your answer.