Help removing belt from alternator...

[themdg]

Hi There. I'm having some trouble loosening my alternator so I can remove my belts. It's part of the process to replace my timing belt.

I'm following the Haynes manual which covers plenty of cars.

It says to loosen the pivot bolt (done) and then to loosen the adjuster bolt (done). I can see that there is a bracket holding it in place too, so I removed that. I also saw a bolt under the adjuster bolt that kinda locks it in place, and I loosened that.

That darn alternator still won't budge. I want it to lean towards the back of the car so I can remove the belt. Am I missing anything? Any tips? Whang on it with a hammer?

[Hajoca]

The adjustment bolt has a 'locking' bolt to keep it snug. that is bolt that you see underneath.
Turn the adjustment bolt some more.

If you were able to turn that, then make sure the adjusting rod is not adding tension to the belt.

[themdg]

Originally Posted by Hajoca

The adjustment bolt has a 'locking' bolt to keep it snug. that is bolt that you see underneath.
Turn the adjustment bolt some more.

If you were able to turn that, then make sure the adjusting rod is not adding tension to the belt.

I'll look at that tonight a bit closer.

I've loosened the locking bolt which is below the adjustment bolt. Maybe I need to completely remove it.

Directly above that locking bolt, and connected to the adjustment bolt assembly is another small bolt. I assume that's part of the adjustment bold and shouldn't be moved. Maybe THAT's the locking bolt.

I'll tool around in there tonight.

[ChiTDI]

Is the alternator pivoting in either direction? Push/pull to make sure it's free.

[themdg]

Originally Posted by ChiTDI

Is the alternator pivoting in either direction? Push/pull to make sure it's free.

No, it's still locked in place pretty solid. Im going out there in a few, and I'll see if I can get it loose. I hate getting stuck on these little things.

[themdg]

Success! Thanks for all the tips.

The locking bolt was the only one I was thinking "naaaww....I couldn't be THAT bolt..." It was. loosened that one, and threaded the adjustment bolt out some more, and the belt slipped right off.

Now for the other one....

[ChiTDI]

Priceless.