Power Steering Belt

[leachman74]

I have a 99 Camry 4 cyl 2.2 L. I replaced the serpentine belt, piece of cake. However, the power steering belt looks a little more complicated. I've taken the wheel off, looks like that is the best access point. Any suggestions or threads out there for the DIY. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Rattlin_Steele]

DIY: GEN3 Timing Belt + Waterpump + Oil Seal Change - Part 1

Linked thread is for timing belt, water pump change, etc, but see pic #19. It shows the two bolts you'll need to loosen. Best access for bottom bolt is through wheel well. Remove access panel there. For top bolt, it is do-able from underneath if you have skinny arms, or else remove dog bone mount and mount bracket below it as shown in that thread. If trying from underneath, just be careful that you get the proper bolt since you're kind of working by feel. There are three other bolt heads about the same size that are part of the pump body. Only loosen the top bolt as needed to pivot the assembly. Loosen it too much and the pump can come off the bracket.

[leachman74]

Thanks for the reply, Pics were very helpful. This forum is great. Thanks to toyotanation, I've saved myself a fortune, replaced my VSV for the EGR valve, rebuilt my starter ($5 contact kit), replaced the serpentine and power steering belts, All of this in the last week, saved me a fortune. Thanks again.

[redtigerrocks]

I have a question about changing the AC/Alt belt. Do you have to use a torque meter to get the right torque or can we just count and record the number of screw "threads" we turned for the alternator bolts?

[ghettosled]

Originally Posted by redtigerrocks

I have a question about changing the AC/Alt belt. Do you have to use a torque meter to get the right torque or can we just count and record the number of screw "threads" we turned for the alternator bolts?

the bolts for the alternatore just need to be snugged down. its not an exact science, just tight enough so they dont loosen but not too tight where you are white-knuckling the wrench. use the same effort it took to loosen the bolts.

[Rattlin_Steele]

Originally Posted by redtigerrocks

I have a question about changing the AC/Alt belt. Do you have to use a torque meter to get the right torque or can we just count and record the number of screw "threads" we turned for the alternator bolts?

I'm assuming you're talking about the bolt for the tensioner mechanism. Some have used a torque wrench to adjust the belt tension to a specifc torque, but I suspect most of us just tighten it until it "feels right". The general rule is at the slackest point of the belt there should be about 1/4" to 3/8" play. Too loose and the belt will slip, too tight and you'll induce excessive wear on the shaft bearings of the accessories.

Counting threads wouldn't be much help because not all belts are the exact same length.