GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Inspection Procedure

Notice: Allowing the drive belt tensioner to snap into the free position may result in damage to the tensioner.

Important: When the engine is operating the drive belt tensioner arm will move. Do not replace the drive belt tensioner because of movement in the drive belt tensioner arm.

  1. Remove the drive belt. Refer to Drive Belt Replacement .
  2. Position a 15 mm box end wrench on the center bolt of the tensioner pulley and rotate the tensioner clockwise.
  3. Move the drive belt tensioner through it's full travel.
  4. • The movement should feel smooth
    • There should be no binding
    • The tensioner should return freely
  5. If any binding is observed, replace the drive belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement .
  6. Install the drive belt. Refer to Drive Belt Replacement .