AC Belt removal

[wmrmurphy]

OK, so I feel like an idiot - I don't have the manual I ordered yet and am trying to replace the 3 belts (20R) - first one - no prob - 2nd one - the ac belt - no luck! there's an adjuster under the compressor that I've loosened completely and nothing! Do I have to remove mounting bolts from the compressor? What the heck - the other two look to be straight forward but this one has me stumped... got any help? thanks!

[wmrmurphy]

19 looks and no response - interesting. FYI - I figured it out - I just loosened associated bolts until something gave - must be the air pump that adjusts - just below the AC compressor. Of coarse, when I loosened the alternator adjuster bolt it broke off - Murphy's law - so I had to pull the alternator - what a PITA! Wow! am I glad I was doing radiator hoses at the same time anyway.... you have to be a contortionist - work from under the car and hold your mouth just right to get the sucker out! Should be interesting putting it back.... Having it rebuilt for good measure as long as it's out - hope to never have to deal with it again after this! later!

[79Corona]

Yes, the air pump is used to tighten that belt. You could have takent he power steering pump loose and you'd have gotten to the alternator better.